Chongqing—Recently, a delegation of experts from Italy’s Ministry of Culture visited Dazu to further deepen their cultural heritage partnership. The two countries have agreed to launch key projects, including restoring the Guangming Hall and establishing a joint conservation laboratory.

During a roundtable discussion, representatives from both nations exchanged ideas on stone artifact preservation techniques, research collaboration, training of high-level professionals, and the promotion of cultural heritage. A significant outcome of these discussions was establishing the China-Italy Joint Laboratory for Stone Artifact Conservation in Dazu. The Academy of Dazu Rock Carvings will invite Italian experts to serve as chief scientists or senior researchers in the laboratory, leading joint research efforts to advance stone preservation technology and share expertise.

This collaboration follows previous successful projects. Chen Huili, Director of the Academy of Dazu Rock Carvings’ Preservation Engineering Center, emphasized that this project would focus more on the degradation mechanisms in painted and gilded stone artifacts and virtual restoration techniques.

Both countries, with the largest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites, are committed to protecting global cultural heritage. This new collaboration is expected to bring fresh ideas, advanced technologies, and greater international experience to the preservation of Dazu Rock Carvings.