THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM ALICANTE

Selling itself as the 21 st century's first archeological museum, MARQ is a superb example of how to bring ancient history alive. Its four main galleries are crammed with artifacts and treasures focusing respectively on prehistory, the Iberian civilization, the Romans and the Middle Ages. But the exhibits are only one part of the whole experience, and most visitors will be as, or more, fascinated by the state-of-the-art visual, light and sound effects. Videos show ancient man tool making and throwing pots, computer graphics bring the Roman past to life around the visitor, Arab and medieval music echo through the galleries, and the excellent lighting system adds drama everywhere. If you thought archeology was dull, MARQ may help you change your mind.