They finally reach MARQ after a long, years-long delay, bringing Xi’an’s famed terracotta guardians to the Alicante museum. The arrival marks one of the most protracted journeys in cultural heritage, with the pieces repeatedly postponed for reasons tied to conservation and international collaboration rather than any issue at MARQ itself.
Today, the Alicante City Council Archaeological Museum received by land transport more than 120 crates carrying elements from the Legacy of the Qin and Han dynasties, China. The Xi’an warriors represent a unique Spain debut, featuring items from nine Chinese museums. A five-member technical team from MARQ joined colleagues from the participating centers to supervise unpacking and assembly, supported by expert MARQ staff.
With the arrival of this significant material, a preparation period begins, culminating in March 28 when the exhibition opens to the public and runs through the end of the month. The process was witnessed by archaeologist Teresa Ximénez and restorer Silvia Roca, who traveled to China in February to participate in the overhaul and inventory of the pieces. [Attribution: MARQ press delegation]
Acceptance of parts at MARQ signaled the start of a careful, meticulous workflow. The exhibit is part of an international collaboration led by MARQ in conjunction with nine Chinese museums and institutions. The focus is on safe handling, precise documentation, and authentic display conditions that honor the objects and the people who created them. The show promises to present an immersive snapshot of their journey from workshop to display case. [Attribution: MARQ curatorial team]
Vice President and Cultural Affairs Director Julia Parra visited the museum to observe the ongoing work and to convey appreciation to the team managing the operation. The message was clear: this moment is special and worthy of careful preparation because it brings one of the most important international displays to the province of Alicante. The provincial director emphasized the significance of this milestone for the region. [Attribution: MARQ communications]
Warriors of Xian travel to the 21st century in MARQ
The pieces arrived in the museum gardens this morning and were placed in a secure loading zone to begin the unloading later in the day. The process adhered to strict safety controls and environmental safeguards, with conditions suitable for the acclimatization of each crate. A 24-hour acclimation period follows to ensure the materials adjust to MARQ’s climate and storage environment.
During the initial phase, unpacking and phased deployment will occur in multiple stages. In total, 120 original parts and five replicas will be prepared for public viewing starting March 28. MARQ and the nine Chinese partner institutions will supervise the handling protocols and conservation measures to guarantee the integrity of the artifacts throughout the exhibition. The display will feature nine original terracotta warriors, a horse, and two replica chariots. [Attribution: Exhibition planning team]
A Cambridge University archaeologist and chair of Archaeological Science highlighted the show as more than a static display. It is an immersive experience that blends history and science, incorporating the latest archaeological techniques. This approach helps visitors connect past discoveries with modern methods and discoveries. [Attribution: Professor Marcos Martinon-Torres]
The exhibition also uses sound and technology to convey scientific progress in China. Bells and a Chinese lithophone will be contrasted with European bells to illustrate cross-cultural exchanges. The narrative respects the workers who crafted these artifacts and honors today’s archaeologists, historians, and researchers who explain how current knowledge was built. [Attribution: Exhibition curators]
Ticket reservations for visiting the Legacy of the Qin and Han dynasties, China: Xi’an Warriors are available online and at the MARQ box office. Admission is 5 euros per ticket, with discounts for seniors, youths, students, and other groups. [Attribution: MARQ ticketing]