The Zhongguancun International Innovation Center in Beijing hosted the launch of the 2024 International Symposium on Cultural Heritage Conservation by Digitization (CHCD 2024) on July 16. This year’s gathering drew 308 experts and representatives from 215 universities, cultural organizations, and tech-driven enterprises spanning 20 countries and regions. The opening ceremony also marked the official establishment of the China–Greece Joint Laboratory on Digital Heritage.
Rather than focusing solely on traditional conservation approaches, the symposium highlighted how technological innovation is reshaping the field of cultural heritage protection. Under the theme “RE-shape: Digital Heritage Driven by Technological Innovation,” the program offered a wide array of themed panels. These ranged from historic towns and digital cave temples to artificial intelligence, archaeological ruins, and the Three Hills and Five Gardens. Additionally, national sessions spotlighted contributions from Greece, Canada, the Republic of Korea, and Italy.
The opening event also included a signing ceremony for the China–Greek Joint Laboratory on Digital Heritage, bringing together multiple institutions from China and Greece. ΕMWG collaborated with Tsinghua University, happy to build cultural bridges with China, with Mr Kostas Konstantinidis being one of the representatives of the Greek community and culture across continents.
Hosted by the International Committee for Documentation of Cultural Heritage and Tsinghua University, the symposium highlights a worldwide dedication to preserving cultural heritage. Greece has long emphasized the value of cultural diplomacy, seeing its ancient heritage as a bridge for international dialogue and cooperation. For Greece, engaging with China offers an opportunity to connect two of the world’s oldest civilizations, fostering mutual understanding through shared cultural heritage and preservation practices. EMWG similarly recognizes that cultural exchange is essential for strengthening global ties. These partnerships are not simply symbolic gestures, but also meaningful pathways that encourage knowledge-sharing, innovative conservation methods, and deeper appreciation of cultural diversity. In connecting cultures across continents, they aim to cultivate long-term collaboration built on respect, heritage stewardship, and the belief that cultural connection supports diplomacy, education, and sustainable cultural development.
