BEIJING, June 10 -- The silent guardians of the tomb of Chinese emperor Qinshihuang are among the most important archeological finds of the 20th century. In the more than three decades since the underground legions of Terra Cotta Warriors were unearthed, millions from China and around the world have visited this eighth wonder of the world.

    And now, a third excavation is getting underway for the Number One pit of the historical site.

    Starting this weekend, archeological workers will dig through the northern section of the number one pit, most of which has been excavated during the previous two efforts. The upcoming excavation will cover an area of two hundred square meters. The dig is expected to make new discoveries about the imperial life of more than 2,200 years ago.

    The site of the terra cotta warriors was discovered by local farmers in 1974. The first excavation was carried out between 1978 and 1984. Covering some 2,000 square meters, it unearthed more than a thousand terra cotta soldiers. In 1985, the second effort began. But it lasted only one year because of a lack of advanced technology to carry out the challenging task.

    Xu Weihong, researcher of Terra Cotta Warriors Museum, said, "In recent years, we have acquired more advanced technology and resources. We are assured that the relics unearthed will be perfectly preserved."

    The museum says the new technologies will be employed during the excavations. They also say special efforts will be made to ensure the preservation of the colored coatings on the terra cotta statues.