History of Chang'an in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: November 28, 2025

Chang'an, now known as Xi'an, was a significant capital city for several Chinese dynasties from 202 BC to AD 907, including the Western Han and Tang dynasties. It was once the world's largest city, located in present-day Shaanxi Province, China. Its historical importance stems from its role as a political and cultural center during a pivotal period in Chinese history.

2001: Discovery of An Jia's Tomb

In 2001, the tomb of An Jia was discovered, revealing a blend of Chinese and Sogdian burial customs. His remains were scattered, diverging from Confucian and Zoroastrian traditions. An epitaph in Chinese detailed his life and career as a 'Sabao of the Tong Prefecture and Commander General of the Great Zhou Dynasty'.

2003: Discovery of Wirkak's Tomb

In 2003, the tomb of Wirkak was discovered, located slightly over 1.6 km east of An Jia's tomb. Similar to An Jia's tomb, it showcased a blend of Chinese and Sogdian burial practices.

2004: More Details on Wirkak's Tomb

In 2004, further details emerged from the discovery of Wirkak's Tomb. Unlike An Jia's tomb, Wirkak's tomb contained two epitaphs, one in Chinese and one in Sogdian. The epitaphs were not direct translations and indicated the scribe may have had a limited understanding of both languages.