Weifang's epigraphic culture was introduced to audiences in Italy and Germany for the first time through a series of exhibitions and cultural exchange activities held from July 14 to 21, marking a milestone in the international promotion of the city's cultural heritage.

The week-long program, held in Colle di Val d'Elsa, Italy, and Frankfurt, Germany, displayed more than 380 epigraphic exhibits while highlighting the legacy of Chen Jieqi, a renowned Qing Dynasty (1644–1911) epigrapher and collector from Weifang.

In Colle di Val d'Elsa, the program included a special exhibition, a China-themed concert and a cultural exchange event that brought together government officials, scholars and local residents.

Representatives of the local government and the Museums of Siena expressed interest in deeper cooperation and invited a selection of Weifang's epigraphic works to tour museums across Siena province over the next two years.

The exhibition in Frankfurt attracted visitors from across Germany. Bilingual presentations in Chinese and German introduced the history and aesthetics of Chinese epigraphy, while a cultural symposium brought together Chinese consular officials, overseas Chinese community leaders and cultural professionals to explore future cooperation.

The Chinese Consulate General in Frankfurt also invited Weifang's epigraphy and intangible cultural heritage works to participate in the 2027 Chinese New Year Fair in Frankfurt.

The events marked the first presentation of Chinese epigraphic culture in Italy and Germany, expanding its international reach while enhancing Weifang's reputation as China's capital of epigraphy and promoting deeper cultural exchanges between the country and Europe.

An exhibition featuring Weifang's epigraphic culture is held in Frankfurt, Germany, on July 20–21. [Photo/WeChat account: weifangshiwenlian]