A poster photo of the column In the footsteps of Marco Polo Photo: Courtesy of Italian Embassy in China

The Italian Embassy launched a new column titled In the Footsteps of Marco Polo on Tuesday, aimed at introducing significant Italian figures who, in different eras and capacities, inherited the legacy of Marco Polo, the Venetian traveler and merchant.

The figures contributed to the dissemination of knowledge about China in the West and continued to strengthen the bonds between the two countries. The inaugural feature highlights Martino Martini, one of the pioneering figures in early Sinology. Martini played a crucial role in spreading knowledge about China's geography, history, language and culture to the West. 

In the history of cultural exchange, Martini's achievements stand as a beacon of knowledge and openness between the Western and Eastern worlds.

The year 2024 is of particular significance for China-Italy cooperation, as it saw the commemoration of the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo's death and the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership signed between the two countries.

The Italian Embassy in China initiated a series of events starting on January 25 to commemorate the anniversary of Marco Polo's death. Italian Ambassador to China Massimo Ambrosetti emphasized the importance of Marco Polo in China-Italy relations, highlighting his role as a symbol of cultural exchange that has played an indispensable role in bilateral relations.