According to archaeologists, the underground palace of Qian Ling occupied an area of approximately 5,000 cubic meters. A conservative estimate reveals that funeral objects occupied about one fourth of the area.. By this estimate, there were at least 800 tons of cultural relics, including priceless rare treasures such as ancient books, rare household utensils, silks, satins and more.

It is said that out of the 200 best-known painters in the Tang Dynasty, more than 110 participated in the creation of the murals in the underground palace, making it a world treasure.

According to the "Records of the Holy Deeds of Emperor Gao Zong ,", an edict left by dying Emperor Gao Zong, the emperor's dying request was to have the calligraphies and paintings that he liked during his lifetime buried with him in his tomb. Many people believe that because of his last wish, the Emperor's tomb must contain countless invaluable works of art and calligraphy.

Wu Zetian was a talented poetess, but very few of her compositions were found. Are they still buried in the mausoleum? The answer remains a mystery.

Has it been excavated?

The majority of Tang Dynasty tombs were raided by Wen Tao, governor general of Yaozhou during the Five Dynasties period (907-960). Historical records say it was a dark day when Wen Tao dug into Qian Ling Tomb. The stone of the tomb was so strong that he couldn't break it open.

Archeological studies have shown the tomb passage, from the entrance to the tomb gate, is built of rectangular stone blocks piled layer upon layer. There are believed to be 39 layers in all.

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