"The global importance of recognizing the Beijing Central Axis as a UNESCO World Heritage Site lies in its potential to enhance cultural preservation, influence urban design, boost international tourism, strengthen cultural diplomacy, inspire sustainability, and promote education about the value of this heritage," says Tom Wolters, a Dutch friend of China. 

Wolters was a foreign expert among the group of supervisors selected in January this year to shoulder the responsibility of helping protect the cultural heritage of the Beijing Central Axis. 

Since the Beijing Central Axis was formally recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in July, Wolters notes the value of preserving cultural heritage has been better underscored. 

"It helps protect the historical narrative and architectural integrity of one of the world’s most iconic urban designs, highlighting the importance of safeguarding cultural legacies for future generations. Beijing Central Axis exemplifies traditional Chinese urban planning and architectural principles, which have influenced urban development worldwide. It provides a model for integrating cultural heritage within the context of modern urban settings, offering lessons for urban planners globally," he explains.

In addition, the recognition has allowed for a more profound international dialogue about heritage conservation in China. "Beijing Central Axis reflects a harmonious relationship between nature and urban space, emphasizing sustainable practices in historical contexts. Its designation, as a World Heritage Site, can inspire contemporary urban-planning efforts, and promote ecological balance and connectivity within urban environments in other countries. It potentially encourages countries, around the world, to consider their own historical urban landscapes for UNESCO designation, providing an impetus for academic research and educational programs that focus on the history, philosophy and architectural innovations represented by the axis. Besides, Beijing Central Axis is likely to attract more international tourists, who will help boost the local economy and help raise global awareness of enhancing cultural exchanges and understanding across borders," Wolters adds. 

As he reflects on the two-plus decades he has been living in China, with his wife and two sons, Wolters describes his impression of China with the following key words: "Rich cultural heritage, technological innovation, natural beauty, culinary diversity, and community and hospitality." These words, collectively, highlight a country that is not only rich in history and tradition, but also forward-looking, showcasing its multifaceted identity on the global stage, Wolters concludes.

Photos by Zhang Jiamin

(Women of China English Monthly October 2024)

Editor: Wang Shasha