China’s Palace Museum marks its centenary, celebrating 100 years of preserving cultural heritage and advancing public engagement with history.
Founded on October 10, 1925, at the Forbidden City, the Palace Museum transformed the royal palace into a public institution. This change allowed generations to access China’s historical treasures and strengthened awareness of cultural preservation.
Over the past century, museum staff have safeguarded priceless artifacts through wars, relocations, and political shifts. During the 1930s and 1940s, officials coordinated the southward evacuation of thousands of crates containing art and relics, ensuring their survival. Guardians faced harsh terrain, bandit threats, and personal sacrifice, reflecting extraordinary dedication.
Historical correspondence illustrates their commitment. Xu Senyu, a senior curator, documented his arduous journeys and recovery from serious injuries while ensuring no artifact was lost. Zhang Tingji led museum operations under enemy occupation, maintaining continuity despite extreme risks. These stories reveal the human effort behind safeguarding civilization.
Post-war efforts strengthened cross-Straits cultural exchange. In 1985, Fu Zhenlun wrote to former colleagues in Taiwan, sharing experiences and aspirations for reunification. Later, Beijing’s Palace Museum director Zheng Xinmiao and Taipei director Qin Xiaoyi exchanged letters and poems, establishing ties that continue to inspire cooperation today.
In recent decades, the Palace Museum expanded its collections to nearly two million items. Experts advanced conservation, research, and public engagement, integrating modern technology to digitize artifacts and enhance accessibility. Educational programs, including Wang Xudong’s 2020 “Letters Across Time” initiative, connected students across Beijing with historical artifacts, fostering creativity and cultural pride.
Experts emphasize that the Palace Museum serves not only as a historical repository but also as a hub for cultural diplomacy. Its evolution demonstrates how tradition can adapt to modern needs while strengthening national identity.
Looking ahead, the Palace Museum will continue embracing innovation, conservation, and education, ensuring its treasures remain accessible for future generations. Its centenary underscores both the resilience of Chinese heritage and the ongoing relevance of cultural preservation worldwide.
