Venue > City of Xi'an

Xi'an, a city located in the southern part of the Guanzhong Plain, surrounded by the Qinling Mountains to the south and the Wei River to the north, is one of the oldest cities in Chinese history and is renowned as one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. The city was formerly known as Chang’an, a name that still evokes a sense of grandeur and history. Xi’an is also famous for being the eastern terminus of the ancient Silk Road, which facilitated extensive international trade and cultural exchange between China and the West.

Nowadays, with rapid economic development and urbanization, Xi’an has transformed into a modern metropolis while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Many high-tech enterprises and research institutions have settled here, promoting local economic growth and innovation. It is now a major transportation hub, connecting China’s northwest region with other parts of the country. Xi’an remains a treasure trove of ancient wonders, making it a popular tourist destination. The city’s historical sites, including the Terracotta Army, the City Wall, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, continue to draw millions of visitors yearly, showcasing China’s rich cultural heritage.

Figure 1 The Bell Tower marks the geographical center of the ancient capital.

Figure 2 Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor (Qin Shi Huangdi, 259 BC-210 BC, the first emperor of China).

Figure 3 Big Wild Goose Pagoda: a well-preserved ancient building and a holy place for Buddhists.