The Yongzhao Mausoleum (永昭陵) is the final resting place of Emperor Renzong of the Northern Song Dynasty, Zhao Zhen. Empress Cisheng Guangxian Fu, his consort, is buried in the tomb of Empress Cao northwest of the emperor’s tomb. Born in the third year of Dazhong Xiangfu (1010 AD), Emperor Renzong ascended to the throne in 1022 AD and passed away in 1063 AD in Kaifeng at the age of 53. During his 42-year reign, the country enjoyed stability, with a gathering of literary and military talents and significant advancements in science and culture, reaching the zenith of the Song Dynasty.
According to historical records, in October of the eighth year of Jiayou (1063 AD), Emperor Renzong Zhao Zhen was buried in the Yongzhao Mausoleum (now located in the downtown area of Gongyi City). The construction of the mausoleum required the labor of 46,700 soldiers over a period of seven months, costing 500,000 taels of silver, 1.5 million guan coins, and 2.5 million pieces of silk. Despite enduring centuries of weathering and plunder during times of war, the grandeur of the imperial tomb complex remains intact.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 0.5 – 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
The Yongzhao Mausoleum is located at No. 84, Dufu Road, Gongyi City, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province, China. To get there, you can take bus Gongyi 1 or Gongyi 8A and get off at Gongyuan West Gate Stop (公园西门站).
Stone Sculptures along the Divine Road
Stretching from the Magpie Platform to the North Divine Gate, the central axis of the Yongzhao Mausoleum spans 551 meters. Along the divine road outside the South Divine Gate, there are 13 pairs of stone warriors, 2 pairs of stone sheep, 2 pairs of stone tigers, 2 pairs of stone horses, a pair of stone lidded vessels, a stone vermilion bird, a stone elephant, and a pair of stone watching pillars. These stone carvings exhibit exquisite craftsmanship and meticulous detailing.
The warriors stand tall with formidable physiques, exuding an air of bravery as they faithfully guard the palace gates. The envoys are portrayed with sturdy builds and concise outlines, holding tribute offerings while draped in voluminous robes that flow down to their feet, presenting a dignified and devout appearance. The stone tigers are depicted with powerful and vigorous forms, while the stone sheep have serene and graceful expressions.
Among the stone carvings, the depiction of the stone vermilion bird is particularly exquisite. The rectangular relief panel portrays layered and ever-changing mountain clouds, serving as a backdrop for the vermilion bird spreading its wings as if ready to take flight. The beautiful tail feathers of the bird resemble a gracefully waving fan in the wind. The relief vividly captures the majestic aura of the mythical bird, presenting a scene of magnificent beauty and romance.
