The enduring legacy of the Qin and Han dynasties in China is highlighted as Xi’an warriors arrive in Alicante to spotlight a major cultural exchange. On Tuesday, March 28, MARQ hosts the opening push for an ambitious Spain-China Year of Culture and Tourism celebrations, a program tied to the fiftieth anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations. The event marks a milestone in bilateral cultural collaboration, underscoring a shared interest in history, art, and people powered by exchange and dialogue.
Carlos Mazón, who leads the Alicante Provincial Assembly, stresses that this exhibition stands as the most significant bilateral Spanish-Chinese cultural initiative of the last decade. The project has gained attention at a national level, with the Chinese government recognizing its importance in strengthening ties between the two countries.
Xian warriors spend their first night at MARQ
At MARQ, the opening night sets a collaborative tone, with a visible presence from the Chinese delegation to accompany the event. Hu Heping, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, is expected to lead the Chinese official team as they participate in the ceremony and related activities. This attendance signals a strong political and cultural commitment to showcasing Xi’an heritage within Spain and, more broadly, in Europe.
Mazón also notes the broader opportunity this project presents for regional tourism. It serves as a platform to present the Alicante province to Asian markets and to highlight its role in a global cultural conversation. Industry observers point to international tourism patterns, such as the strong appeal of Chinese travelers to Europe, and note that robust cultural programs can translate into elevated visitor interest and longer stays. The discussion reflects a broader trend in tourism where cultural exhibitions act as catalysts for travel, education, and cross-cultural understanding.
Historical context from the World Tourism Organization is referenced to underscore the potential impact. The data suggests substantial Chinese outbound travel and spending, with the expectation that post-restrictions, recent growth trends may resume. Spain has previously hosted a notable number of Chinese visitors and has seen substantial per-visitor expenditure, which rivaled that of other major European markets. These indicators help frame the anticipated benefits of the MARQ initiative for the region and for Spain as a destination for cultural pilgrimage and education.
Warriors of Xi’an travel to the 21st century in MARQ
In the final planning stages ahead of the public presentation, MARQ arranged meetings with prominent cultural officials to ensure smooth execution of the opening day. Zheng Hao, Deputy Director General for International Exchange and Cooperation at the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, and He Yong, Minister of Culture at the Spanish Embassy, joined forces to support the event, along with ministry technician Liu Meijiang. Their collaboration reflects a robust bilateral effort to align institutional support with the artistic program, logistics, and outreach strategies that will bring Xi’an’s ancient warriors to life for a contemporary audience.
Ticket reservations for the exhibition titled The legacy of the Qin and Han dynasties, China Xi’an Warriors are available through the MARQ official channels. Priced at five euros per ticket, the admission offers discounts for seniors, students, and other eligible groups. The arrangement ensures accessibility while preserving the integrity of the gallery experience, inviting both locals and visitors to engage with a pivotal slice of Chinese history interpreted through MARQ’s exhibition design.