The Beijing Central Axis has become a standout example of how digital technologies can revitalize and preserve cultural heritage, as highlighted at the 2024 Beijing Culture Forum.
The forum, themed \"Deepening Cultural Exchange to Achieve Common Progress,\" concluded on September 21 in Beijing, drawing over 800 guests from both China and abroad. The Beijing Central Axis, with over 700 years of history, serves as a testament to the city's rich civilization and memory. Its heritage value and preservation efforts were central to the discussions.
Stretching 7.8 km from Yongding Gate in the south to the Bell and Drum Towers in the north, the Beijing Central Axis was meticulously planned based on ancient architectural philosophies to create an ideal layout for the capital city. In July, it was proudly listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
Sun Xinjun, Party secretary of the Dongcheng District of Beijing, emphasized that preserving cultural heritage requires both reverence for history and a spirit of innovation. Integrating the cultural essence of heritage sites into daily life enhances the public's spiritual well-being.
Beijing has introduced dynamic forms to present its historical legacy, such as the digital bell at the Bell and Drum Towers, which uses light and shadow to capture the passage of time, and contemporary interpretations of traditional opera on Qianmen Street. These initiatives allow people to experience cultural heritage through immersive interactions.
Jad Tabet, president of the Association of Architects and Engineers of Arab Countries, noted that the UNESCO inscription offers fresh perspectives on urban heritage. The Beijing Central Axis exemplifies the enduring vitality of traditional urban planning, while highlighting the need for urban heritage protection policies to adapt to the evolving demands of modern cities.
Participants at the forum agreed that digitization is key to revitalizing cultural heritage. Leveraging technologies like artificial intelligence and digital twins can enhance the preservation of the Beijing Central Axis. Chinese tech giant Tencent has contributed significantly by creating a digital microcosm of the central axis, featuring approximately 300,000 plants and 2.2 million buildings. Their mobile mini-program, \"Digital Central Axis,\" offers users an immersive journey guided by virtual characters.
The mini-program also supports the Digital Watchman project, an innovative crowdsourced conservation initiative launched in December 2023. By scanning QR codes, taking photos, and uploading inspection reports, residents and visitors can actively participate in monitoring and preserving the heritage site.
Chen Juhong, vice president of Tencent, highlighted that the rapid development of digital technology presents new opportunities for cultural inheritance. The \"Digital Central Axis\" project has been pivotal in Beijing's application for World Heritage status, showcasing digitization as a key innovation.
Roman Jeannaeu, chairman of the organizing committee of the Sunny Side of the Doc, emphasized the role of audiovisual media in promoting cultural heritage. He expressed hope for more international documentaries focusing on the Beijing Central Axis, highlighting China's vast and diverse cultural heritage on a global stage.
Reference(s):
Beijing advances central axis protection through digital technology
cgtn.com