Chongqing - On November 27, 2023, Niccolo Chongqing hosted the "City Wandering - Stepping in Time" symposium, a highlight of the Niccolo Lectures series. This event, featuring the esteemed urban planning and construction expert and historical and cultural scholar He Zhiya as the keynote speaker, delved into Chongqing's rich urban memories and cultural heritage.
He Zhiya, a pivotal figure in Chongqing's urban evolution, brings a wealth of expertise in urban planning and historical-cultural research. At the symposium, he vividly recounted Jiangbeizui's developmental journey, enriching his narrative with a wealth of old photographs and personal anecdotes. His comprehensive speech traversed the historical and present landscape of urban planning and provided valuable insights and forward-looking recommendations for Chongqing's future growth.
He Zhiya, a renowned expert in urban planning and construction and a scholar of history and culture (Photo/ Li Xinyi)
During the event, He Zhiya showcased a collection of photographs he had captured over a decade, featuring Chongqing's Mother City in Yuzhong District, Jiangbei City, and the old streets of Nan'an District. These images vividly document the historical essence of Jiangbei Old Town before its reconstruction. His presentation was more than a photographic exhibition; it was a tribute to Chongqing's extraordinary cityscape.
He highlighted the city's unique topography, characterized by its dramatic mountainous terrain and serpentine rivers, which have shaped not just the physical layout but also Chongqing's cultural and architectural identity. As He Zhiya eloquently pointed out, this geographical uniqueness has endowed the city with an architectural character quite unlike any other, marked by layered streets, hilly landscapes, and buildings that conform to the contours of its natural setting.
He Zhiya's photographic collection (Photo/ Li Xinyi)
Moreover, He expressed his perspectives on Chongqing's urban planning and the preservation of its cultural heritage. He posited that urban development and historical preservation represent a complex, sometimes contradictory, interplay. This delicate balance, he argued, demands engagement and attention not only from governmental entities but also from a broader spectrum of society, highlighting the collective responsibility in safeguarding the city's rich historical tapestry.
The event centered around exploring Chongqing's abundant urban memories and its profound cultural heritage. (Photo/ Li Xinyi)
Throughout the event, He's discourse captivated numerous young attendees, keenly interested in urban culture and history, while also igniting profound contemplation among the audience about the city's past and its trajectory into the future. He expressed gratification in observing a growing engagement of the youth with Chongqing's history and culture, particularly their active involvement in research and discussions pertinent to these areas.
Collective snapshot of distinguished guests (Photo/ Li Xinyi)
The Niccolo Chongqing, serving as the venue for this event, embraced its brand ethos by offering a dynamic platform. It catered to a diverse array of participants, including adventurous entrepreneurs, lifestyle and business innovators, as well as celebrities and sports stars, facilitating an exchange of unique insights and extraordinary life stories.
The "City Wandering - Stepping in Time" symposium did more than highlight Chongqing's distinct allure as a city steeped in history and culture; it offered attendees a chance to profoundly understand and appreciate the city's essence. The event deepened the audience's appreciation of how Chongqing's unique topography has shaped its growth, cultural fabric, and architectural identity.