In Alicante, a delegation welcomed guests from Shanxi Province in China as part of a cultural exchange surrounding the Xi’an Warriors exhibition at MARQ. The visit was led by Zhuang Changxing, the vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the Shanxi Province People’s Congress, who toured the State Palace facilities before proceeding to the international display of Xi’an warriors that opened last March at the Alicante Archaeological Museum.
The president of the Provincial Council, Toni Pérez, highlighted that culture serves as the strongest bridge between nations. He stressed that Alicante, a province with a rich and varied productive landscape, has much to contribute to a growing partnership that began with the Xi’an Warriors exhibit. The potential for expanded collaboration is clear, and Pérez expressed confidence that this cultural exchange will develop across multiple sectors.
The gift exchange during the visit featured a crafted replica of a bust-shaped cauldron found in ancient Iberian contexts, symbolizing the historical dialogue between the two regions. The Chinese delegation presented a tapestry depicting the Silk Road as a metaphor for ongoing cultural and economic ties. In addition, a symbolic book signed by Xi Jinping and the Xi’an leadership was exchanged, reinforcing the goodwill and shared curiosity about the histories that connect Shanxi and Alicante.
The encounter also provided a moment to recognize the broader significance of MARQ’s international program. The Alicante council noted that the exhibition offered the public a rare opportunity to engage with ancient Chinese culture, its distinctive customs, and the broader traditions of Shanxi. The delegation reiterated openness to further cultural collaborations and exchanges with the regional government of Shanxi, a province notable for its large population and its historical and economic importance within China.
Amid the formalities, representatives from Alicante, including cultural leadership and other officials, discussed ongoing opportunities to promote mutual understanding through art, history, and shared scholarly initiatives. They examined future possibilities for co-curated exhibitions, educational projects, and public programs designed to illuminate diverse heritages and strengthen bilateral ties.
As the dialogue progressed, it became clear that the Xi’an Warriors exhibition is more than a temporary show. It serves as a platform for long-term collaboration, inviting scholars, artists, and communities on both sides of the globe to explore the rich narratives of ancient civilizations and the enduring lines that connect them. The conversation underscored a common conviction: culture is a powerful instrument that broadens horizons and deepens mutual respect between Alicante and Shanxi.