Zhao Mausoleum, Tang dynasty mausoleum in Shaanxi, China

Zhao Mausoleum is a Tang dynasty burial site in Shaanxi Province that extends across Jiuzong Mountain and contains the resting place of Emperor Taizong along with around 200 accompanying tombs on its grounds. The complex includes several terraces and stone pathways that wind through the forested slopes.

Construction of the mausoleum began in 636 following the death of Empress Zhangsun and marked a significant chapter in Tang dynasty architectural development. The complex expanded over several decades as additional members of the court were laid to rest in the surrounding tombs.

The stone reliefs of the Six Steeds represent military accomplishments, with four pieces displayed at the Stele Forest Museum in Xi'an and two at the University of Pennsylvania Museum. These carvings depict the horses the emperor rode during his campaigns.

The mausoleum lies on Jiuzong Mountain, about 25 km northeast of Liquan County seat, north of Xi'an. Above ground only part of the Xuanwu Gate and worn stone steles remain, so the tomb itself is read from the mountain slope and the ramp. The roughly 200 satellite tombs, including those of Wei Zheng and Li Jing, lie in a fan shape in front of the main tomb.

The Six Steeds reliefs were carved on stone slabs, and cracks visible in all of them are said to result from cutting them apart for transport. Four are kept at the Stele Forest in Xi'an; two, Sa Lu Zi and Quan Mao Gua, went to Philadelphia. The horses are named for the campaigns of Taizong, including against Xue Rengao and Liu Heita.