Alabama's Terracotta Army in Troy

Warriors in the replica Terracotta Army outside Troy University’s International Arts Center.Photo byKelly Kazek

In 1974, a startling discovery was made by archaeologists in China: thousands of life-sized ceramic warriors were found in the tomb of an ancient emperor. After a lengthy study of the display, a replica of the intricate works was made and is now at Troy University in Alabama. The original warriors, known as the Terracotta Army, were buried with the first Chinese emperor, Qin Shi Huang Di, circa-209 B.C. to join him in the afterlife. This archaeological find is referred to as the “eighth Wonder of the World”, as noted by Clif Lusk from Troy’s University Relations Department.

Buried for centuries, a large amount of the original figures still remain hidden. According to Lusk, it is speculated that around 8,000 warriors are located among chariots, animals, performers, and other clay sculptures representing afterlife needs. In 2016, a replica of the warriors was installed at Troy, which is "the largest collection of Terracotta Warriors to be seen from Troy all the way to Xi'an, China," said Lusk. He further noted that with meticulous skill, Dr. Huo replicated the sculptures to look like their original construction.

A visit to Troy can take you to a 200-replica warrior display located in Janice Hawkins Cultural Arts Park on University Avenue. Additionally, the International Art Center houses an indoor exhibit called "Warriors Unearthed" close by.

Photo byKelly Kazek

Frank Marquette, the creator of "Warriors Unearthed," is known for designing various Hollywood and Disney sets, according to Lusk. This interactive experience provides an educational exploration of the terracotta warriors and the story of how Huo Bao Zhu's artwork eventually arrived in Troy, Alabama.