A great site at which to commence your tour of the important historical attractions in Xi'an would be the famed Terracotta Warriors, located about a 40-minute drive from the city centre. After its discovery in the year 1974, this amazing find has been described as ranking amongst the 20th century's most outstanding archaeological discoveries. These life-sized figures were created to protect the soul of Emperor Qinshihuang, China's first Emperor, in the afterlife; today, this magnificent mausoleum is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you visit this attraction, you will have the opportunity to observe these many intriguing terracotta soldiers and horses which present a striking sight.