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Qianling Mausoleum (Photo/Xinhua)
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Shaanxi, one of the cradles of Chinese civilization, can boast on its list of tourist attractions the Lantian ape-man, the earliest human, the splendid Yangshao Culture and the Banpo Culture. Aside from these, the province was home to the capitals of thirteen dynasties over a span of more than 1,100 years, from the Zhou Dynasty (1100-221BC) to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD).
The province's extensive history has left behind numerous scenic spots which are all worth paying a visit to. Except for the most popular one, the Terracotta Army, there are many other impressive sights to see throughout the area. Let's take a look at the following ten amazing attractions!
Top 10: Qianling Mausoleum (乾陵)
The Qianling Mausoleum is one of the Tang Dynasty (618–907AD) tombs located in Qian County, Shaanxi province. It was built in 684 AD (with additional constructions added until 706), and several royal family members were buried here, including Emperor Gaozong (649–683AD) of the Tang Dynasty and his wife, China's only governing empress, Wu Zetian (690–705AD).
Qianling is the most typical and best preserved of all eighteen Tang mausoleums. The mausoleum is also well-known for its Tang Dynasty stone statues as well as for the mural paintings adorning the tombs' underground walls.
Admission: 70 yuan (Mar - Nov); 40 yuan (Dec - Feb);
Best time to visit: March to November