Tang Zhenling Mausoleum

Introducing Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty
Tang Zhenling Mausoleum is a Tang dynasty (618–907) tomb site located in Jingyang County, Shaanxi province, 70 km (43 mi) north of Xi'an. Zhenling Mausoleum was built in 860 to house the 16th Emperor of the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong Li Chen, who was born in 610 and died in 659. Li Chen was supported by some powerful eunuchs and ministers as the next emperor when his nephew emperor, the Emperor Wuzong Li Yan passed away in 846. Emperor Xuanzong Li Chen died on Aug 7, 859 at the age of 49 and was buried at Zhenling Mausoleum on Jan 15, 860. The Zhenling Mausoleum is renowned for its many Tang dynasty stone statues located above ground. The two stone lions guarding the West Gate of White Tiger of Zhenling Mausoleum are the best shot among all the 18 Tang Dynasty Emperors' Tombs for photographers.

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Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty Fast Facts
• Chinese Name: Tang Zhen Ling 唐贞陵
• Best Time to Visit: All year round
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 2 hours
• Distance from Xian: 73 km (45 mi)
• Opening Hours: All day
• Entrance Fee: Free
• Address: Cuihuang Village, Baiwang Township, Jingyang County, Shaanxi Province

What to expect at Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty

Ceremonial Gate Towers of Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty
Ceremonial Gate Towers are free-standing towers which were placed in pairs in front of the entrances to imperial tombs. Such free-standing towers, serving as markers of the symbolic boundary of a tomb, had developed from gate towers that were an integral part of a city wall. Ceremonial Gate Towers were usually the largest and most expensive component of the spirit way. Here, it would symbolize the passage of the soul into the world of the spirits. Three sets of Ceremonial Gate Towers are arranged sequentially south of Zhenling mausoleum of Tang Dynasty which represent three gates located on the central axis of the capital city of Chang'an.

 

Spirit Way of Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty
Spirit way is the ornate road leading to a Chinese Emperor's mausoleum. The spirit way is lined on both sides by a succession of statues, pillars, and stelae. The statues along the spirit way depict real and mythical animals, as well as civilian and military officials. Spirit ways would be typically arranged along the north–south axis; the spirit road would lead from the south to the southern gate of the enclosure within which the tomb itself and the associated buildings were located. Along the Spirit Way of Zhenling Tomb, there are 28 stone statues that serve as his funeral procession. These include a pair of Ceremonial Columns, a pair of Winged Horse, one ostrich, 10 saddled horses, 13 statues of civilian and military officials.

 

Tomb Chamber of Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty
The tomb chamber of Emperor Xuanzong is located deep within Mount Zhongshan (elevation is 1003 meters). The builders of the site dug a 37 meters long and 4 m (13 ft) wide tunnel into the rock of the mountain that leads to the inner tomb chambers located deep within the mountain. It is recorded that Zhenling Mausoleum was looted during the Five Dynasties period (907 - 960).

 

 

How to get to Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty
There is no public transportation going to Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty. It is recommended to rent a car on GoGrandChina.com.

Additional travel advice on Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty
• The road in Zhenling Mausoleum of Tang Dynasty can be muddy if it rains, therefore avoid visiting on raining days.
• Please wear comfortable hiking shoes.