The legacy of the Qin and Han dynasties shines anew in Spain as the Xian Warriors exhibit arrives at MARQ. Since opening last Tuesday afternoon, the venue has welcomed 4,559 visitors through last Sunday, averaging about 1,000 people daily to experience this unprecedented cultural showcase that stands as a landmark European highlight for the year.
The collection features more than 120 artifacts, with several pieces shown outside of China for the first time. Included are nine life size terracotta figures and a horse, part of the renowned World Heritage Site collection since 1987, celebrated along with numerous other distinctions such as the Prince of Asturias Science Award in 2010. This display, rich in historical context, has drawn significant attention from first time visitors who describe the experience as immersive and multi sensory, offering a rare window into ancient craftsmanship and ceremonial life.
Early impressions highlight the quality and uniqueness of this exhibit, which many visitors regard as a singular multi sensory journey that engages sight, touch, and imagination without leaving the safety of the gallery.
Secrets of Xian Warriors Before, During and After
The striking interest shown by the public has translated into a rapid sale of guided tour tickets for Easter, with more than twenty five thousand reservations already logged online. While the fair has attracted record interest, it is noted that the current edition does not include an open day during the first weekend. The rationale lies in managing the large influx of visitors expected for the duration of the exhibition.
Promotion to the Tourism Industry
In a related development the President of the Alicante Provincial Assembly, Carlos Mazón, presented complementary actions designed to boost the local tourism sector as the MARQ exhibition continues through January 2024. The plan involves collaboration with cultural representatives and regional tourism teams to raise awareness among both visitors and residents of Alicante.
Mazón was joined by a cultural delegate and the director of the Costa Blanca Tourism Board, along with municipal tourism professionals. The objective is to encourage tourism information sharing, support for hospitality and dining venues, and use of cultural entertainment venues to maximize the impact of the largest cultural event in Spain in 2023.
Thanks to this cooperative approach, tourism operators are offering special incentives for visitors. The President underscored that the collection from China represents a unique opportunity to promote the Costa Blanca and Alicante as must see destinations with abundant attractions.
Our industry will be the flag of this cultural offering, he stated. Publishers and supporters of the exhibition may help attract visitors who would otherwise miss these treasures. With the professionalism of the local tourism sector on display, the prospects look bright because hard work has paid off and the time is ripe for noticeable gains.
Estimates from the provincial leadership project that attendance will climb beyond 300,000 visits, a benchmark that would surpass the earlier success of the Mirón exhibition which drew close to 220,000 visitors.