The Terracotta warriors have long been a subject that has fascinated history lovers all over the world for many years. Although there is plenty of information, as well as some strange theories, already out there all about the incredible discovery, Netflix are releasing a new documentary film taking an in-depth look at the subject. In anticipation, I’ve put together everything you need to know about Mysteries of the Terracotta Warriors ahead of its June release.
Mysteries of the Terracotta Warriors Premise and Release Date Explained
Mysteries of the Terracotta Warriors is slated for release on June 12th, 2024. There is always a chance that the date could change, but it’s unlikely at this point.
The show is set to take a deep dive into the mysterious phenomenon that is the Terracotta Warriors. The official blurb from Netflix reads:
“From the makers of Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb, this feature documentary will explore Emperor Qin’s extraordinary tomb in China.”
What is Emperor Qin’s tomb?
Emperor Qin’s tomb is a major Chinese archaeological site found near the capital city of Chhang’an Shaanxi in China and was the burial site of the first sovereign emperor, Shihuangdi of the Qin Dynasty.
This emperor would unify the empire and was also at the forefront of building the Great Wall of China. In 1974, a team of workers who were drilling a well were shocked to stumble upon an underground chamber. The incredible find revealed an army of around 8ooo life-sized soldiers, made from terracotta, that amazingly were detailed individually, meaning they all had different faces.
There were also horses and wooden chariots, bronze and iron artifacts such as bridles and farming tools, and other items made of silk, jade, and bone. Weapons found in the chamber were made of a strange alloy, and are still shining and usable today.
The show will also explore all the aspects of the extraordinary find, which includes so much more than we can present here.
James Tovell’s Other Work
Mysteries of the Terracotta Warriors comes from documentary director James Tovell, who fans will know from Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb. Tovell was also on board with shows such as I Am Killer and Cradle to Grave.
James would also direct the episode of Autopsy that focused on the last hours of Whitney Houston but more recently would be in the director’s chair for the stunning series Earth in 2023. Tovell would be one of a team of directors involved in the incredible and ambitious BBC production, that would try to present a history of the planet. The show was a huge undertaking and would be critically praised.
Lion TV is on board for the production duties, and you will know that team from Netflix’s Alexander: The Making of a God, Saving Venice, Horrible Histories, and the Arctic From Above.
