164 years ago, the Old Summer Palace in Beijing, known as Yuanmingyuan, was decimated by invading British and French forces during the Second Opium War. The once magnificent complex was reduced to ruins, and over 1.5 million cultural treasures were plundered, scattering China’s heritage across the globe.
After relentless efforts by the Chinese government, patriotic individuals, and international cultural figures, a significant milestone has been achieved: one-tenth of the looted relics have found their way back to the Chinese mainland.
Seven Pillars Return Home
Among the returned artifacts are seven exquisite pillars that once adorned the majestic halls of the Old Summer Palace. These pillars, intricately carved and steeped in history, symbolize the cultural resurgence and the enduring spirit of the Chinese people.
The return of these relics is not just a repatriation of artifacts but a restoration of cultural identity. Each returned item carries with it stories of the past and serves as a bridge connecting the present generation with their rich heritage.
The journey to recover these treasures has been arduous. It involved diplomatic negotiations, auctions, private purchases, and the generous efforts of overseas collectors and institutions who recognized the importance of returning these artifacts to their rightful home.
The Chinese government continues to pursue the retrieval of the remaining artifacts, emphasizing the significance of cultural heritage preservation and international cooperation. The return of the relics from the Old Summer Palace serves as a testament to global acknowledgment of historical justice and shared human values.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
