Immersive Exhibit 'The Last Days of Pompeii' Opens in Beijing
Visitors experience ancient Roman life through cutting-edge technology at a new exhibition running until August 31.
The Universal Creative Park in Beijing has unveiled an exhibition titled 'The Last Days of Pompeii,' offering audiences a unique opportunity to delve into the final moments of the ancient Roman city.
Running from this week until August 31, the exhibition is a collaborative effort between China Dream Live Entertainment (CDE Live) and Madrid Artes Digitales (MAD).
It features a range of archaeological artifacts from Pompeii, supplemented by immersive video and projection experiences.
Visitors can don virtual reality (VR) headsets to transport themselves nearly 1,900 years back in time, where they can explore aspects of daily life in Pompeii, including walking through ancient courtyards, visiting the villa of a Roman family, and witnessing gladiator contests in a bustling amphitheater.
Jelle de Jong, the CEO of MAD, emphasized the significance of Pompeii as a historical site, praising its preservation due to the volcanic ash that encased the city.
He noted that through the use of modern technology, the aim is to recreate the environment of ancient Pompeii, allowing visitors to feel the experiences of its inhabitants.
Zhu Ranhua, CEO of CDE Live, remarked that they intend for the exhibition to instill a sense of appreciation for everyday happiness among attendees.
Previously showcased in Madrid, Vienna, and Berlin, the exhibition garnered over 500,000 visitors collectively.
To cater to local audiences, Zhu and her team have instituted modifications for the Chinese segment of the exhibition, including the addition of a courtyard experience to highlight the artistic life of the Romans.
In a nod to a popular hobby among younger Chinese visitors, they have also introduced collectible postcards that can be stamped during the visit.
Concerns regarding the representation of the volcanic eruption were addressed by Zhu, who shared an anecdote about a young girl who did not find the depiction frightening.
Zhu articulated that while the exhibition includes elements of disaster, it also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Pompeii.
Míriam Huéscar, the exhibition's curator, expressed that one of the primary goals is to foster connections among cultures globally by unveiling shared cultural roots, not solely those of Europe.
She emphasized that culture serves as a vital means of communication, allowing for a deeper understanding of different peoples and their customs.
De Jong echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the insights he gained regarding Chinese culture throughout the exhibition's preparation period.
As 2025 approaches, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, De Jong noted a rising frequency in cross-cultural exchanges, which have been buoyed by improvements in living standards and China’s ongoing openness to global interactions.
Zhu has observed a growing interest among the Chinese public in cultural events with Western themes, highlighted by the success of a recent Mariah Carey concert in China and the popularity of productions such as 'The Phantom of the Opera.' Furthermore, she has noted that traditional Chinese culture is also gaining traction among the youth, with plans underway for an exhibition focused on Chinese culture to be showcased in Europe.
Running from this week until August 31, the exhibition is a collaborative effort between China Dream Live Entertainment (CDE Live) and Madrid Artes Digitales (MAD).
It features a range of archaeological artifacts from Pompeii, supplemented by immersive video and projection experiences.
Visitors can don virtual reality (VR) headsets to transport themselves nearly 1,900 years back in time, where they can explore aspects of daily life in Pompeii, including walking through ancient courtyards, visiting the villa of a Roman family, and witnessing gladiator contests in a bustling amphitheater.
Jelle de Jong, the CEO of MAD, emphasized the significance of Pompeii as a historical site, praising its preservation due to the volcanic ash that encased the city.
He noted that through the use of modern technology, the aim is to recreate the environment of ancient Pompeii, allowing visitors to feel the experiences of its inhabitants.
Zhu Ranhua, CEO of CDE Live, remarked that they intend for the exhibition to instill a sense of appreciation for everyday happiness among attendees.
Previously showcased in Madrid, Vienna, and Berlin, the exhibition garnered over 500,000 visitors collectively.
To cater to local audiences, Zhu and her team have instituted modifications for the Chinese segment of the exhibition, including the addition of a courtyard experience to highlight the artistic life of the Romans.
In a nod to a popular hobby among younger Chinese visitors, they have also introduced collectible postcards that can be stamped during the visit.
Concerns regarding the representation of the volcanic eruption were addressed by Zhu, who shared an anecdote about a young girl who did not find the depiction frightening.
Zhu articulated that while the exhibition includes elements of disaster, it also showcases the rich cultural heritage of Pompeii.
Míriam Huéscar, the exhibition's curator, expressed that one of the primary goals is to foster connections among cultures globally by unveiling shared cultural roots, not solely those of Europe.
She emphasized that culture serves as a vital means of communication, allowing for a deeper understanding of different peoples and their customs.
De Jong echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the insights he gained regarding Chinese culture throughout the exhibition's preparation period.
As 2025 approaches, marking 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, De Jong noted a rising frequency in cross-cultural exchanges, which have been buoyed by improvements in living standards and China’s ongoing openness to global interactions.
Zhu has observed a growing interest among the Chinese public in cultural events with Western themes, highlighted by the success of a recent Mariah Carey concert in China and the popularity of productions such as 'The Phantom of the Opera.' Furthermore, she has noted that traditional Chinese culture is also gaining traction among the youth, with plans underway for an exhibition focused on Chinese culture to be showcased in Europe.
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