On October 1st, the main emblem for the world heritage site “Quanzhou: World Maritime Trade Center of Song and Yuan China” was officially unveiled at Wenmiao Square in Quanzhou, Fujian. This event underscores Quanzhou’s pivotal role in global maritime trade during the Song and Yuan dynasties.
During this era, Quanzhou transformed into a vibrant international port, drawing in merchants from around the globe with its diverse and prosperous trading scene. It became a unique fusion of traditional Chinese and maritime cultures, nurturing the rich Minan culture and the heritage of the maritime Silk Road. In 2021, Quanzhou earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognized as the “World Maritime Trade Center of Song and Yuan China.”
In an exclusive interview, Quanzhou’s Mayor Cai Zhansheng shared his thoughts on the city’s ongoing commitment to preserving and revitalizing its cultural heritage since its inclusion on the World Heritage List three years ago. “We have been deeply committed to the comprehensive and systematic preservation and utilization of our cultural heritage,” he stated. The city strictly follows the guidelines set forth by the World Heritage Convention and is actively enforcing regulations for the protection of cultural relics. It’s noteworthy that Quanzhou’s ancient town has been designated as a model area for cultural heritage protection and utilization in China. UNESCO has commended Quanzhou for its effective promotion of world heritage, referring to its efforts as exhibiting a “power effect.”
The newly unveiled emblem, titled “Sailing with the Maritime Silk Road,” is an impressive stone sculpture measuring 4.53 meters in length, 1.9 meters in width, and 4.5 meters in height. It comprises various components, including the project name, the world heritage logo, a brief description of the heritage’s significance, and elements representing the maritime Silk Road. The thoughtful interplay of these elements creates a striking visual impact, symbolizing the spirit of the maritime Silk Road—embarking into new horizons while showcasing Quanzhou’s industrious and adventurous character as the starting point of the maritime silk route.
In closing, Mayor Cai emphasized that the unveiling ceremony is a chance for Quanzhou to further explore its cultural significance and articulate the value of its heritage. “We are committed to establishing a model city for the protection and utilization of world heritage, ensuring the orderly transmission of cultural heritage and the continued vitality of our historical narrative,” he affirmed.
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