March 29

On March 29, 1871, Queen Victoria officially opened the Royal Albert Hall in South Kensington, naming it after her late husband, Prince Albert. Designed by Captain Francis Fowke and Major Henry Y. Darracott, the hall features a grand domed roof, terracotta façade, and intricate mosaic friezes. Its circular auditorium was engineered to accommodate diverse events, from concerts and exhibitions to public ceremonies. Over the decades it has hosted world-renowned musicians, stage performances, and the annual Promenade Concerts. The venue's exceptional acoustics and striking architecture have made it an enduring symbol of Victorian innovation. Today, the Royal Albert Hall remains a vibrant cultural hub and one of London's most iconic landmarks.

In March 1974 near Xi'an, farmer Yang Zhifa stumbled upon the Terracotta Army, an astonishing array of more than 8,000 clay soldiers and horses. Commissioned by Emperor Qin Shi Huang in 210 BC, these sculptures were meant to guard the emperor in the afterlife. The site spans over 22 square kilometers and includes warriors, chariots, and horses, each with unique facial features. Archaeologists have unearthed multiple pits, uncovering details of Qin dynasty craftsmanship and funerary practices. The discovery revolutionized our understanding of ancient China’s art, culture, and imperial power. Today, the site is a UNESCO World Heritage landmark attracting millions of visitors annually.