Terracotta warrior replica makes its Scottish debut at Heriot-Watt University

A replica Terracotta Warrior has been unveiled at Heriot‑Watt University’s Edinburgh campus, celebrating the long‑standing partnership between Edinburgh and the Chinese city of Xi’an. It’s the first time the replica has gone on public display in Scotland.

The figure was presented to Heriot‑Watt by the Lord Provost of Edinburgh after being gifted to the capital by Xi’an to mark the 40th anniversary of the Edinburgh–Xi’an twinning in 2025. Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice‑Chancellor of Heriot‑Watt University, described the statue as a symbol of the University’s global outlook and its deep ties with China.

“We are deeply honoured to receive this remarkable Terracotta Warrior replica, a powerful symbol of the enduring friendship between Edinburgh and Xi’an.

“This gift reflects the strength of our long‑standing partnerships in education, research, and cultural exchange, and it recognises the commitment our University has made to fostering global understanding.”

The Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge, said he was delighted the statue would be displayed at Heriot-Watt and underlined the strength of the Scotland China relationship: “As Scotland’s Capital, we have long links with China going back over a century.

“Our bond continues today through our twinning with Xi’an and our fantastic exchange programme which welcomes thousands of students each year.”

The replica warrior is on display at the University’s Confucius Institute, which supports language learning, cultural exchange, and business engagement between Scotland and China.

Heriot-Watt University has a long history of collaboration with Chinese institutions, including joint research initiatives, student exchange programmes, and cultural partnerships that reflect its commitment to international cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Doctor Isabel Hui Liu, Director of the Confucius Institute expressed hope that the gift would strengthen the University’s wider engagement with China: “I am keen that we go beyond the cultural aspect and use this opportunity as part of a broader celebration of our outstanding work in China and our strong connection with Xi’an, particularly in light of our joint education programmes with Xidian and Chang’an Universities, both based in Xi’an.”

The statue is a representation of a Terracotta Army General, symbolising leadership, wisdom, and strength. The original Terracotta Army dates to the 3rd century BCE, created under the rule of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor to unify China. Constructed as part of his vast mausoleum complex, the army was intended to protect the emperor in the afterlife and to reflect the military might that unified the warring states. Each warrior was individually crafted with unique facial features, hairstyles, and armour.

After lying hidden for more than two millennia, the warriors were rediscovered by farmers in 1974, outside Xi’an in Shaanxi Province. The find became one of the most significant and iconic archaeological excavations of the 20th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The University plans to display the Terracotta Warrior replica on campus as a reminder of the shared values of learning, cultural exchange, and international partnership. It will also serve as an educational resource for students, staff, and visitors interested in Chinese history, archaeology, and global heritage.

Members of the public are welcome to visit the Confucius Institute to view the General. Those interested in visiting the Terracotta Warrior exhibition can contact the team to arrange a suitable time via Z.Hain@hw.ac.uk. Alternatively, you can stay up to date with upcoming events at the Confucius Institute by following its Eventbrite page https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/scibc-at-heriot-watt-university-12146227565)