According to historical records, there were 16 imperial concubines buried alive in the east and west pits as funeral objects of the emperor. They were called pits because they were vertical shafts without horizontal tunnels.

In the slavery society, human sacrifice was commonplace. From the Qin and Han dynasties onwards, wooden or earthen figures were used instead. However, the cruel system was not abrogated thoroughly and the first Ming emperor restored the old system with 46 imperial concubines buried with him. This practice ended when the sixth Ming emperor issued an edict in mid-15th century to abolish the system of human sacrifice.

Beijing Tour Routes Covers Ming Tombs

Photo of Ming Tombs


Photo of Sacred Way