At the end of November, the eastern city of Hangzhou in China will become the stage for an unprecedented cultural gathering that will attract prominent figures from the international cultural scene. This event, the Liangzhu Forum, will take place from November 25th to 27th and will focus on a central and symbolic element: the ‘eyes’ of this famous gathering.
The Liangzhu Forum, an initiative of the Management Committee of the Liangzhu Archaeological Site Administrative District in Hangzhou, uses the ‘eyes of civilization’ as its logo. This emblem is not simply decorative, but seeks to convey openness to exploration and shared learning between civilizations, looking both to the past and the future and advocating for global cultural synergy.
Over 200 representatives from 63 countries and regions will attend, including award-winning experts in various disciplines such as literature, archaeology, and music. Figures such as a winner of the Shanghai Archaeological Forum and a member of the jury of the prestigious Cervantes Literature Prize will be present, providing a unique opportunity for guests to delve into the rich cultural heritage of China and other world civilizations.
Originating as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, the Liangzhu Forum aims to establish itself as a platform for enhancing dialogue between cultures globally. Although its first edition took place in 2023, its influence is already beginning to be felt in the international cultural community.
The discovery of Liangzhu, an ancient city with over five thousand years of history, has positioned Chinese culture on par with other ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Mesopotamia, and India. Its recognition as a World Heritage Site on July 6, 2019, and the subsequent designation of Liangzhu Hangzhou Day, underscore its historical importance.
During its first edition, the forum successfully connected artists and sinologists from around the world through creative activities and exploration excursions. For the upcoming second edition, discussions between writers, archaeologists, and musicians of various nationalities are expected, as well as exhibitions showcasing cultural achievements, seminars on ancient Chinese art, and concerts dedicated to Liangzhu culture.
The announcement of the creation of the International Archaeological Center of Liangzhu by the National Cultural Heritage Administration during the forum emphasizes the commitment to interdisciplinary and international collaboration.
The Liangzhu culture not only stands as a testament to ancient Chinese culture, but also leads an essential effort: applying the Global Civilization Initiative and promoting cultural exchanges through the Liangzhu Forum. Chen Guangsheng, head of the Zhejiang Department of Culture, Radio, Television, and Tourism, highlights this mission by inviting the international community to discover the cultural and tourism opportunities offered by this prominent Chinese region.
“Through the Liangzhu Forum, we seek to collaborate with the global cultural and tourism industry to discover new opportunities together,” Chen declared, calling on all those interested to join the experience offered by Zhejiang.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish