'China's deadly mystery': Terracotta guards a tomb sealed for 2,200 years. But what’s inside?
'China's deadly mystery': Terracotta guards a tomb sealed for 2,200 years. But what’s inside?
Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Sealed Tomb
Qin Shi Huang’s tomb has remained untouched for 2,200 years, guarded by booby traps and toxic mercury.
Deadly Traps
Ancient records claim the tomb is rigged with crossbows and arrows, set to fire at any intruder.
Toxic Mystery
Scientists fear highly volatile mercury is leaking through cracks, making excavation extremely dangerous.
Buried Secrets
Historian Sima Qian wrote that the tomb contains palaces, treasures, and a flowing mercury river.
Terracotta Guardians
The emperor’s 8,000-strong Terracotta Army, discovered in 1974, still stands watch over his undisturbed tomb.
Archaeologists’ Dilemma
Experts debate using non-invasive technology to explore the tomb without damaging its fragile interior.
Mercury River
Ancient texts claim a mechanized river of mercury was built inside, symbolizing China’s great waterways.
2,200-Year Fear
Scientists are hesitant to open the tomb, fearing its preserved secrets could be lost forever.
Qin’s Forbidden Chamber
Despite modern advances, no one dares enter the final resting place of China’s first emperor.
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