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Xian, the historical city, was called Chang'an in ancient times,
and is now the capital of Shaanxi province.
Xian is situated in the centre of Weihe Plain with the towering
and verdant Mt.Qinling in the south, with the meandering and rolling
Beishan mountain system in the north and eight rivers around it,
all of which are at Guang Zhong Plain (the centre of passes). Historically,
it was famous for being called "a gold city stretching a thousand
li" with its fertile soil, mild climate, adequate rainfall
and rich products.
Xian has a long history. Since the earliest societies, humanity
lived and multiplied here. It served as a capital for twelve dynasties,
including the Western Zhou, Qin, Western Han, Sui and Tang dynasties,
spanning over 1120 years. It became the oriental cultural centre
of the Silk Road.
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