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Soldiers. Charioteers. Archers. Musicians. Generals. Acrobats. Nearly 2,000 years ago, thousands of life-size clay figures were buried in massive underground pits to accompany China's first emperor, Qin Shihuangdi, into the afterlife. Their discovery outside the city of Xi'an in 1974 is one of the greatest archaeological finds of the 20th century.

Now, you can stand face-to-face with these terra cotta warriors. In November 2009, National Geographic Museum will host Terra Cotta Warriors: Guardians of China’s First Emperor, an exhibition featuring treasures from the tomb complex including 15 life-size figures, weapons, armor, coins, and more. Don't miss this chance to see the largest collection of significant artifacts from China ever to travel to the United States.

Learn more about Terra Cotta Warriors: Guardians of China's First Emperor

Public Programs

Lecture

The Emperor and His Terra Cotta Army

November 21, 2009 @ 2:00 p.m.

Free Film Screenings

The Real Dragon Emperor (2006/60min)

The latest archaeological research and imaging techniques take you inside the massive tomb of China's first emperor.

National Geographic–Grosvenor Auditorium
November 19, 2009 – March 31, 2010
Noon on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays
Saturday, November 21: 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 4:00 p.m.
Noon and 2:00 p.m. on the following Saturdays: 11/28, 12/26, 1/30, 2/27, 3/27
Check out current offerings from NG Live!
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Address and Hours

National Geographic Museum

17th & M Streets NW, Washington, DC 20036
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Dates: November 19, 2009 to March 31, 2010
Daily: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesdays: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Closed December 25, 2009

Special Events Offer

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Enjoy exclusive access to the exhibition for your clients and special guests.

Learn More (PDF)

Terra Cotta Warriors Shop

Photo: Terra Cotta Warrior figurines Terra Cotta Chinese Warrior Figurines

Handcrafted miniature terra cotta reproductions from 3rd-century China.

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Discover China's mysterious underground army of more than 8,000.

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