5 Unsolved Mysteries of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s Tomb That Continue to Baffle Experts

The tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang is one of the most enigmatic archaeological sites in China, shrouded in secrecy and legends.

 

 

As the first emperor to unify China over 2,000 years ago, Qin Shi Huang not only established an empire but also left behind some of history’s most ambitious architectural wonders, including the Great Wall of China and the imperial road network. His mausoleum, hidden beneath Mount Li, remains largely unexplored, adding to its air of mystery.

Here are five of the most perplexing mysteries surrounding Qin Shi Huang’s tomb that still remain unsolved to this day.

1. The Terracotta Army’s Deadly Curse

A chilling legend suggests that the infamous warlord Xiang Yu, who led 400,000 soldiers to raid Qin Shi Huang’s tomb, was cursed and later killed by the very spirits of the Terracotta Warriors.

According to historical accounts, the five cavalrymen who ultimately ended Xiang Yu’s life were all former Qin soldiers and the real-life models for the Terracotta Army. This has fueled a theory that these warriors carry a supernatural curse, punishing anyone who dares disturb the emperor’s eternal rest.

2. The Underground River of Mercury

Did Qin Shi Huang’s underground palace contain a deadly river of flowing mercury? This question has puzzled experts for centuries.

Ancient texts such as the Records of the Grand Historian and the Book of Han mention rivers of mercury designed to mimic China’s natural waterways, serving as a trap for grave robbers.

Modern scientific surveys have confirmed abnormally high levels of mercury—spanning 12,000 square meters—in the central region of the tomb. However, this very discovery also poses a major challenge for archaeologists, as mercury contamination makes excavation extremely dangerous.

3. Is Qin Shi Huang’s Body Still Intact?

The remarkably well-preserved Mawangdui corpse from the Han Dynasty, which has remained intact for over 2,000 years, raises an intriguing question: Could Qin Shi Huang’s body have been preserved just as well?

Some believe that given his unparalleled power, the emperor would have had access to advanced preservation methods. However, skeptics argue that his body decayed significantly before being transported back to the capital. Historical records state that officials had to hide the odor of decay by loading the emperor’s carriage with rotting fish. If true, this suggests his remains may not be well-preserved after all.

4. How Deep Is the Emperor’s Tomb?

Archaeological surveys reveal that the underground palace stretches 260 meters east to west and 160 meters north to south, covering a total area of 41,600 square meters—roughly the size of five international soccer fields.

Surprisingly, recent findings suggest that the tomb is not as deep as once believed. Estimates place its depth at around 26 meters from the surface to the bottom, with the original entrance depth reaching about 37 meters during the Qin Dynasty.

5. The Mystery of the Burned Terracotta Warriors

During the excavation of Pit 1 and Pit 2 of the Terracotta Army, archaeologists found evidence of widespread fire damage.

Two theories exist regarding the cause of the fire:

1. Natural combustion—Over time, organic materials like wood within the pits decomposed, producing methane, which eventually ignited.
2. Arson—Historical records suggest that Xiang Yu, after destroying the Qin capital, may have also set fire to the tomb as an act of revenge.

In 2009, during the third excavation phase, archaeologists discovered burned corridors and warped, discolored doors—clear evidence of deliberate arson. The damage was more severe in well-ventilated areas, further suggesting that the fire was man-made.

The Unopened Tomb: A Gateway to More Mysteries?

Despite modern technology, Qin Shi Huang’s tomb remains sealed, largely due to concerns over structural stability, high mercury levels, and preservation challenges.

As new discoveries emerge, will we one day uncover the ultimate secrets of China’s first emperor? Or will the tomb’s legendary curses and deadly traps keep its mysteries buried forever?