On February 3, 2026, the National Museum of China in Beijing hosted the opening of two prestigious Italian exhibitions, culminating in the celebrations for 55 years of diplomatic relations between Italy and China. The event was attended by Sun Yeli, Chinese Minister of Culture and Tourism, Alessandro Giuli, Italian Minister of Culture, Luo Wenli, Director of the museum, and Massimo Ambrosetti, Italian Ambassador to China. The two ministers officially opened the exhibitions, accompanied by speeches outlining a shared vision of cultural collaboration.
Italian exhibitions at the National Museum in China, remarks from leaders: a dialogue between ancient traditions
Alessandro Giuli hailed the occasion as the culmination of a year of bilateral festivities, emphasizing the deep bond between Italy and China:
“Two nations, guardians of ancient legacies, distant only on the map but united by centuries of mutual fascination.”.
The Minister of Culture highlighted how these exchanges transcend geographical and temporal boundaries, with historical figures who fostered connections between the two worlds well before the contemporary era.
Luo Wenli emphasized the role of cultural diversity as a catalyst for progress:
“Human civilization advances through variety that generates exchange, exchange that produces inspiration, and inspiration that drives development.”.
He described Italy and China as pillars of Western and Eastern civilizations, with a responsibility to safeguard and share their heritage for global benefit. The exhibitions, he concluded, represent an ideal bridge for Chinese people to appreciate the essence of Italy, and vice versa, fostering further collaboration.
“"Geometry, Harmony, and Life": The First Palladio Exhibition in China
Curated by Treccani in collaboration with the Italian Embassy and the National Museum of China, the exhibition explores the architecture of Andrea Palladio from the ancient world to Renaissance classicism. For the first time, the Chinese public has access to a systematic scholarly analysis, the result of joint research between Italian and Chinese experts. Over 100 artifacts from both countries illustrate parallels and influences between Eastern and Western architectural traditions, following a narrative designed for an Asian audience. The exhibition reveals how Palladio's genius, with his quest for perfect proportions, echoes universal principles of balance, offering insights into how Italian architecture has interacted with other cultures throughout the centuries.
“"Pompeii. An Eternal Discovery": Three Centuries of Vesuvian Archaeology
Presented again with Treccani, this retrospective traces the evolution of Pompeii excavations from the 18th century to the present day, highlighting shifts in methods, theories, and findings. On display are 105 extraordinary artifacts—from sculptures to frescoes, ceramics, bronzes, and gold jewelry—including 81 making their debut in China and seven never before seen anywhere else. Each piece recounts the daily life of an ancient, buried city, immersing visitors in a unique journey through time. The exhibition not only celebrates archaeological discoveries but also demonstrates how Pompeii continues to reveal new aspects of Roman history, strengthening the prestige of Italian heritage abroad.
A cultural bridge for the future of Italy and China
These exhibitions, part of the rich calendar of bilateral cultural exchanges, go beyond the display of works: they embody a diplomacy of beauty and shared knowledge. With their focus on artistic and archaeological legacies, they open new prospects for cooperation, inviting Chinese and Italians to rediscover ancient ties in a modern context. This initiative promises to inspire future generations.