Xian History

Xian, used to be Changan, is one of the birthplaces of the Chinese nation and eastern civilization. Xian has a history of over 6000 years and had been the capital of countries for 1200 years. There have been 13 dynasties set Xian as their capitals. Since the Western Han Dynasty, Xi'an has become the key city of economic and cultural exchanges and friendly relationships between China and other countries. It was the starting point of the Silk Road since Western Han Dynasty. "Changan culture" represents the backbone of Chinese culture. Xian was once China's political, economic and cultural center and one of the earliest cities opening to the outside world. One of "Eight Wonders of the World"- Terracotta Warriors shows the city’s profound history and culture. With historical and cultural heritage, Xi'an enjoys reputation as the "Natural History Museum". The variety of cultural relics, the large amount, the value, are ranks No. 1 in the world.

As early as 1.1 million years ago, in ancient times, the human ancestors lived and multiplied here. In ancient times, Homo Erectus Lantianensis lived here; Neolithic "Banpo ancestors" established tribes here.

 

 

Qin’s capital was Xianyang. Epang Palace’s most part is in today’s Xian city. Terracotta Warriors and Mausoleum of Qin Shi Huang is also in the territory of Xian City.

 

 

Changan was also the capital of Tang Dynasty. The imperial city was completely at the some place of Xian City. Tang Dynasty’s imperial tomb, such as Zhao Mausoleum, Qian Mausoleum, etc. are mostly in today’s Xianyang City. In 1369, Fengyuanlu was changed to Xian Government Office. Xian has been in use ever since.

 

After the Revolution of 1911 broke out, the capital city of Xi'an was one of the earliest city responded. On December 12, 1936, “Xi'an Incident” shocked the world.

 

Xian and Xianyang are the same city from 1966 to 1971, and in 1971 designated as two cities. Xian was the provincial capital.