A rooftop guardian's story: Meet Chiwen from Xixia Imperial Tombs

Look up when you visit historic Chinese buildings.

Along the sweeping roof ridges and upturned eaves, small mythical creatures quietly stand guard. Often called rooftop beasts, these decorative figures were believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the wooden structures from disasters.

One of the most famous lineups crowns the Hall of Supreme Harmony inside the Forbidden City, where a procession of ridge guardians overlooks the historic heart of Beijing.

But the Chiwen featured here tells a story far from the Chinese capital city.

This towering glazed figure –a mythical ridge beast traditionally associated with protection against fire – was unearthed at the Xixia Imperial Tombs. The site is a vast complex of imperial burial grounds built during the Xixia Dynasty (1038–1227) by the Tanguts.

Today, the tombs are recognized as the largest, highest-ranked, and most intact archaeological remains from the Xixia (Western Xia) period.

In 2025, the site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Scholars say the complex offers valuable insight into a vibrant civilization that flourished for nearly two centuries in northwest China, shaped by cultural exchange and trade along the Silk Road.

Standing 1.52 meters tall, this silent Chiwen – once perched high above ancient rooftops – is ready to offer a glimpse into the past. Check it out!