A morning at MARQ, the Alicante museum, saw a significant turnout for the Xian warriors exhibition. On the first open day planned for the week, attendance approached the high end of expectations, with a total crowd of 1,644 visitors. The organizers confirmed that a repeat opening is scheduled for the following week, specifically on Thursday the 12th, to accommodate ongoing public interest and to offer additional chances to view the historic display.
From the early hours, a queue formed outside MARQ as visitors waited for the doors to open at 10 a.m. The line wrapped around the building, signaling strong public curiosity about the exhibit and a willingness to plan ahead for a museum visit. This level of interest underscored MARQ’s role as a premier cultural venue in the region and highlighted the public’s appetite for immersive, well-researched historical displays.
In response to the substantial influx, MARQ opened larger reception and waiting areas, including meeting halls and garden spaces, to accommodate the growing crowds while maintaining orderly access. The team implemented timed entry for different groups to manage flow and minimize waiting times, ensuring a smoother experience for everyone. Prospective visitors were kept informed about the program and the access schedule to help them plan their day effectively.
Access to the interior galleries was limited after midday to preserve the quality of the experience and to maintain safety standards. By 12:00 p.m., entry had become impossible due to the high volume of visitors and the need to cap entries to prevent overcrowding. The museum remained open for those already inside until the scheduled closing time, with staff continuing to guide and assist guests as needed.
There were some protests from members of the public who arrived with the intention of visiting the exhibition and found limited capacity at that hour. The situation emphasized the importance of controlled access to protect the collection and the visitor experience. Security measures necessitated temporary pauses in entry so that guests could be moved through the galleries without compromising safety or the integrity of the displays.
Beyond the MARQ site, other nearby points of interest also reported notable attendance. The Lucentum site drew 214 visitors, while Illeta de El Campello brought in 361, and Torre de la Almudaina welcomed 8 visitors. These numbers illustrate a broader regional interest in ancient histories and archaeological artifacts that span multiple arena sites, reflecting a vibrant local culture and a strong tourism draw for the area. The collective turnout highlights the impact of well-structured museum programming on regional cultural engagement and the ability to coordinate concurrent visits across sites for a richer educational experience. [Citation attribution to MARQ event records and site coordinators]