1. 13 Royal Tombs of Ming Dynasty
明十三陵

2. Overview of a Tomb
                                                                        

3. 13 Royal Tombs of Ming Dynasty
The first tomb was built between 1407 to 1413 for the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty. 12 tombs were added thoughout the whole dynasty.
The tombs are located in the northeastern suburb of Beijing City.
The whole area covers more than 40 square KM.
One tomb per emperor. A total of 13 emperors, 23 queens and 1 junior queen were buried in the 13 tombs. Scores of junior wives were also buried here – alive! Other junior wives of emperors were buried in “junior wives’ gardens” near the tombs in the same area.

4. A Map of the Whole Area

6. 13 Royal Tombs of Ming Dynasty
The 13 tombs are very difficult to open without causing damage. Till now, only 2 have been opened by anthropologists.
Each tomb has an underground palace, which contains the emperor’s and queen(s)’s coffins.
A variety of treasures, clothing, cultural relics and other valuables were buried with the emperor to ensure he would live a comfortable life after death.

7. The Above Ground Part of an Underground Palace
                                                           

8. The Entrance of an Underground Palace

9. Coffins in the Underground Palace

10. An Emperor’s Hat – Found in a Tomb

11. An Emperor’s Belt – Found in a Tomb