Archaeologists studying the tomb of China’s first emperor have revealed that Qin Shi Huang may have been buried with a national treasure.
Scanning techniques in the area have uncovered a substantial amount of coins lying beneath an unopened tomb.
The tomb of Qin Shi Huang, located near the ancient city of Xi’an, gained fame in 1976 when 8,000 terracotta warrior statues were discovered guarding the site.
This emperor ruled China from 221 to 210 BC and is believed to have spent decades constructing the vast underground mausoleum.
The earthen mound covering the tomb contains wealth that has largely remained untouched, as archaeologists fear disturbing the treasures within. However, scanning techniques employed by Chinese and German archaeologists have revealed new details about the structure of the tomb complex and an astonishing quantity of coins.
Michael Petzet, President of the International Committee on Archaeological Heritage, believes this cache of coins represents a national treasure buried beneath the underground palace. Petzet noted that the coins from the Qin Dynasty are mostly made of bronze, with some made of silver.
Nevertheless, Petzet emphasizes that until scientists find a way to preserve these coins, the treasure should remain undisturbed in its original location.
“Excavating them means destruction. Let them rest beneath the earth. It will be safer that way,” Petzet stated.
