Three Decades of Research on Lucentum Compiled in a Rigorous Catalogue

Temporality resides solely within the Marq's exhibition halls. Its displays are captured in unique catalogues that expand upon the information of the exhibited objects, as well as the scientific and research work that shapes the tours.

The Archaeological Museum of Alicante has hosted the presentation of its latest catalogue, 'Cities of Light', which compiles the results of over three decades of research on the Tossal de Manises site. Additionally, it accompanies the current exhibition, which will conclude in May.

This "rigorous" scientific publication further acknowledges the Marq's role as "a great cultural engine". Its pages serve "to protect, conserve, and disseminate archaeology" in the province of Alicante, emphasized the Deputy of Culture, Juan de Dios Navarro. This catalogue, like the exhibition, displays the transformation of Lucentum "into a socialized space", following its enhancement and dissemination.

More than 70 articles make up this catalogue, 'Cities of Light', with over 400 pages. Its creation involved "more than 40 archaeologists, technicians, experts, and researchers from the emblematic site", detailed the director of the Marq, Manuel Olcina; who emphasized that the opening of Lucentum to the public in 1998 "as an archaeological park marked a revitalization of research programs".

The catalogue presentation also featured the attendance of the Deputy of Architecture, Carmen Sellés; the director-manager of the C.V. MARQ Foundation, José Alberto Cortés, who moderated the event; as well as the participation of the exhibition's curators, Olcina himself alongside the Director of the Architecture Area of the Diputación, Rafael Pérez, and the Excavation Technicians of the C.V. MARQ Foundation, Antonio Guilabert and Eva Tendero.

Inaugurated last December, 'Cities of Light. Ákra Leuké, Lucentum, Laqant' is the temporary exhibition occupying the largest area in the museum's history. A self-produced proposal, it will remain on display until May 18th, aiming to illustrate the succession of ancient settlements that inhabited the La Albufereta area of Alicante, using the archaeological site of Tossal de Manises as a central theme.