Unveil the Beauty of Qianling Mausoleum: A Traveler’s Perspective

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of China’s Shaanxi Province lies the captivating Qianling Mausoleum, an ancient burial site steeped in history and unparalleled beauty. Built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), this UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as the final resting place for Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, the only woman in Chinese history ever to ascend the throne in her own right. The mausoleum’s significance in Chinese history reflects the zenith of Tang Dynasty culture and power.

Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian

The tombs of the mausoleum complex house the remains of various members of the House of Li, the imperial family of the Tang dynasty. The imperial tombs of Emperor Gaozong and his wife, Wu Zetian, are some of the most notable.

Other notable members of the Great Tang Dynasty are interred there as well, including Wu Zetian’s son, Crown Prince Zhanghuai, her grandson (posthumously honored Crown Prince Yide), and her granddaughter (posthumously honored as Princess Yongtai). This information is available because of the Sui and Tang dynasty practice of including an epitaph that records the imperial family member’s name, rank, and death and burial dates.

Like many ancient tombs, the Qianling Mausoleum has been excavated. Five attendant tombs were opened and studied in the 1960s and early 1970s, but the excavation was stopped before the tombs of Emperor Gaozong and Wu Zetian were explored. In 2012, the Shaanxi Administration of Cultural Heritage announced that no excavation could occur at the mausoleum site for at least 50 years to protect the tombs from damage and theft of artifacts.

According to local lore, the spirits of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian still roam the grounds, their presence felt in the whispering winds and rustling leaves.

The Mausoleum

Upon entering the gates, one sees landscaped gardens adorned with ancient stone sculptures and winding pathways. The burial site is a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, a hallmark of traditional Chinese mausoleums.

One of the most breathtaking features of the Qianling Mausoleum is its underground palace, where the tombs of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian are enshrined. The dimly lit inner tomb chambers are decorated with exquisite stone carvings and colorful murals.

Another notable feature of the Qianling Mausoleum is the “Spirit Way,” an avenue lined with stone statues of mythical creatures and guardians.

This ancient burial site offers a glimpse into a bygone era of imperial splendor. For any traveler seeking to uncover the beauty and history of China, a visit to the Qianling Mausoleum is an absolute must.

Any time one visits the burial site of an influential family, it’s understandable that the mind would wander to one’s own end-of-life plans. What will later generations say when visiting your mausoleum?

If it’s your desire to build a noteworthy, private mausoleum in North America, request a consultation with Eternal Mausoleums by Forever Legacy. We work with the finest granite, the best artisans, and expert-level building techniques to create works of art that will stand the test of time.

Key Takeaways

• Qianling Mausoleum was built during the Tang Dynasty and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• The mausoleum holds the remains of Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, the only woman in Chinese history ever to ascend the throne in her own right.
• It’s possible to custom-design a private family mausoleum in North America.