Terracotta Warriors act as "ambassadors of culture" to Spain

The Alicante Archaeological Museum (MARQ) bid farewell to a 10-month multisensory exhibition of the world-famous Terracotta Warriors from China’s Xi’an on the weekend. The exhibition, known as “The Legend of China’s Qin and Han Dynasties,” opened on March 28, 2023, and featured a selection of 120 original pieces, including seven warriors and a horse, from nine Chinese museums and institutions.

According to Spanish archaeologist and researcher Marcos Martinon-Torres, the Terracotta Warriors play a crucial role as cultural ambassadors around the world. Martinon-Torres, who is a professor at the University of Cambridge and the curator of the exhibition, also highlighted the extensive logistical planning and coordination required for the exhibition.

Martinon-Torres, who has collaborated with archaeologists and researchers from Xi’an since 2006, emphasized that the exhibition is not only about archaeology and history, but also about technology and science.

With approximately 280,000 visitors, MARQ reported that the response to the exhibition has been “very enthusiastic, very positive,” according to Martinon-Torres. He emphasized the importance of the impression formed by visitors after experiencing the exhibition, especially given the diverse audience that ranged from tourists to academics and children.

The exhibition curator expressed hope for continued promotion of the exchange of knowledge with China. He stressed the significance of fostering ongoing collaboration and understanding between cultural institutions.

The successful conclusion of the Terracotta Warriors exhibition at MARQ marks a milestone in the cultural exchange between China and Spain. The positive response from visitors, diverse in their interests and backgrounds, underscores the universal appeal and significance of the Terracotta Warriors as cultural artifacts.

MARQ’s exhibition curator praised the public’s engagement with the exhibition, expressing gratitude for the “very enthusiastic, very positive” reception. He reiterated the importance of fostering ongoing dialogue and collaboration with Chinese institutions to promote the exchange of knowledge and understanding.

As the Terracotta Warriors are bid farewell at MARQ, the legacy of their visit serves as a testament to the enduring cultural significance and appeal of this iconic symbol of Chinese history. The exhibition’s success and positive impact highlight the value of international exchange and cooperation in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. The collaborative spirit of the exhibition reflects a shared commitment to fostering global cultural understanding.