City history
A gateway to China's ancient past, Xi'an has served as a capital for numerous dynasties and remains a vital center of historical timekeeping and culture.
Chapter one
Historical name
"Eternal Peace"
As the capital during the Han and Tang dynasties, Chang'an was one of the most populous and influential cities in the ancient world, serving as a major hub for trade and culture.
Eternal Peace
Served as the primary capital for several of China's most powerful and culturally significant dynasties.
Western Peace
An older Romanization of the city's name used in Western maps and historical documents.
Western Peace
The modern designation used in the standard Pinyin Romanization system.
Chapter two
China introduced Daylight Saving Time to conserve energy, affecting all major urban centers including Xi'an.
Daylight saving time was discontinued nationwide due to its limited effectiveness and administrative complexities.
Chapter three
The region played a crucial role during the unification of China under the first Qin Emperor.
Xi'an, as Chang'an, reached its peak as a global center of the Silk Road and cosmopolitan culture.
The massive city wall system seen today was constructed during the early Ming Dynasty to protect the capital.
The accidental discovery of the Terracotta Army brought global attention to the city's immense archaeological significance.