Xi'an, once known as Chiang-an, is the most distinguished of the six ancient capitals of China. Situated on the central plain of China, at a key geographical site where the Silk Road began, it was the main city of ten imperial dynasties including the Qin, Han and Tang and today is a veritable museum of relics from prehistorical and imperial times. As such, it remains a major centre for visitors, both Chinese and foreign. This book outlines the main changes in the city's appearance over the years, its political and military achievements, its culture and arts, its transport systems and the lifestyle of its peoples. All the objects in it were specially photographed for the book.