April 18 this year marks the 36th World Heritage Day, or International Day for Monuments and Sites.

Initiated in 1982, this commemorative day aims to promote public awareness of the diversity and the non-renewability of the cultural heritage of humankind, thus arousing people's enthusiasm to protect and conserve our common heritage.

Let's take a look at the top 10 mysterious historical sites around the world that are testaments to mankind's wisdom and creativity.

The Terracotta Army

The Terracotta Army excavated from Emperor Qin's mausoleum is a marvel of the world with its three pits taking up an area as large as about 20,000 square meters. In 1987, the Terracotta Army joined the UNESCO's World Heritage list.

Apart from the terracotta warriors, nearly 8,000 horses, more than 100 chariots and over 40,000 bronze weapons were unearthed, which are an epitome of the organization and weaponry, as well as the tactics of the Qin army.

Judging from archeological explorations, the Terracotta Army symbolizes the Emperor's garrison when he was alive to guard his mausoleum and the three pits are organized according to military tactics.

With heights between 1.75 meters to 1.85 meters, the Terracotta Warriors all wear different expressions and look vigorous and athletic. Generals, warriors and charioteers' uniforms and hairstyles vary in accordance with rank.

The terracotta horses are normally 1.5 meters tall and 2 meters long, with stocky builds and powerful muscles. With heads held high and manes streaming, they all look like horses prancing and galloping on the battlefield.

Viewing these terracotta army figures, you cannot help but be awestruck by this version of the impressive army that Emperor Qin led to help him unify the country, as well as the consummate artistic designs.

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