The selection of Wu Zetians tomb: Why was it chosen at Qianling in Liangshan, Shaanxi, rather than Luoyang?
2024-05-23 18:12:08 中文版

As the only female emperor in Chinese history, Wu Zetian's life is full of legend. However, the location of her tomb is also noteworthy. Unlike many other emperors who chose to build their tombs near their capitals, Wu Zetian chose to build her tomb in Qianling, Liangshan, Shaanxi, and be buried together with her husband Li Zhi. The reasons behind this choice deserve further exploration.

Firstly, the geographical location of Qianling in Liangshan, Shaanxi is advantageous. Liangshan is located in Hancheng City, Weinan City, Shaanxi Province, in the Guanzhong Plain, with flat terrain and mountains surrounding it, enjoying excellent natural conditions. Such a geographical environment is not only conducive to the construction and maintenance of the tomb, but also conforms to the principle of "hiding wind and accumulating qi" in ancient feng shui theory, and is considered a auspicious place.

Secondly, the burial of Qianling with Li Zhi reflects Wu Zetian's respect and nostalgia for Li Zhi. Li Zhi was the Tang Gaozong, Wu Zetian's husband and emperor of the Tang Dynasty. They ruled together for many years and had deep feelings. Building the tomb in Qianling and being buried together with Li Zhi is not only a memorial to Li Zhi, but also an affirmation of their joint ruling history.

Thirdly, the construction of Qianling is magnificent, demonstrating Wu Zetian's ambition and aspirations. Qianling covers an area of about 23 million square meters, and there are a large number of stone carving artworks in the cemetery, including the famous "Wu Zetian's Stele without Words". The existence of these buildings and artworks undoubtedly adds historical value and cultural connotation to Qianling.

Finally, the choice of building the tomb in Qianling, Liangshan, Shaanxi instead of Luoyang may also be due to political considerations. Although Luoyang was one of the capitals of the Tang Dynasty, the Shaanxi region also had important strategic significance for the Tang Dynasty. Building the tomb in Shaanxi can consolidate the Tang Dynasty's ruling position in the western region and reflect Wu Zetian's political wisdom as an emperor.

In summary, Wu Zetian's choice to build her tomb in Qianling, Liangshan, Shaanxi instead of Luoyang was based on considerations of geography, emotions, culture, and politics. This choice not only reflects Wu Zetian's personal wishes and emotions, but also demonstrates her wisdom and foresight as an emperor. Nowadays, Qianling has become one of the important sites of ancient tombs in China, attracting countless tourists to visit and commemorate the life of this legendary queen.

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