Restoration of historical relics through knowledge share

IT is around 3pm standard time. Despite the scorching sun and intense heat (about 38 degrees Celsius), curious and anxious crowds are flocking at the Emperor Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum, approximately one hour’s drive from Shaanxi Province’s capital Xi’an.

This suggests the site offers something compelling enough to draw a crowd even in unfavourable weather conditions.

Shaanxi province, often regarded as one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilisation is located at the hinterland of China with a population of about 40 million. It is recorded that 14 dynasties (Kingdoms) including Zhou, Qin, Han and Tang established their capital cities here for 1,180 years.

Its capital Xi’an is the eastern starting point of the ancient Silk Road, with a history of more than 3000 years and more than 1000 years of being the capital city.

Media delegates from 12 African and Asian countries were among those who had the chance to visit this archaeological wonder among many.

As it is summertime in China, the number of students visit these sites as domestic tourists is staggering.

The author of this story was curious to know many people do the single site record in a day and was amazed to learn that by that time (3pm) they had recorded 65,000 in attendance.

And further records show that it is estimated that about one to two million people visit the site annually.

The site identified as the Emperor Qin Mausoleum dates for over three centuries. A lot of excavations have been done and the local experts are digging and restoring the remains of ancient materials, including artifacts, structures and landscapes.

The Terracotta army restoration experience is among the activities that even media delegates were exposed to.

The history of gallant warriors who defended China from foreign invaders, the army formations, weapons is being narrated by very young archaeology experts whom you might think were part of the living during the time.

The Qing dynasty, also known as the Great Qing, was the last imperial dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912. It was established by the Manchu people, who originated from Manchuria (northeast of China).

The Qing expanded China’s territory significantly and oversaw a period of both prosperity and internal struggles.

“As part of efforts in development and based on the revitalisation plans of President Xi Jinping, China is deliberate in its quest to rehabilitate and restore the glory of its robust history and rich traditions,” says Ms Zainab Uche Anyadike, Principal Research Fellow at the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution in Nigeria.

She adds that to this end, China has embarked on a quest to preserve its cultural authenticity by emphasising its unique craftsmanship through the restoration of architectural complexes and artifacts.

Examples of these are reflected by the noticeable works of the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Mausoleum, showcasing the cultural and political antecedence of the Chinese people.

Asides recognising the value of physical historical preservation, China is equally applying priority on reviving traditional arts, crafts and performances.

The latter was evidenced in a theatre poetic dance on ‘The Journey of a Legendary Landscape Painting’, which demonstrated careful and methodical choreography that resonated characteristics very integral and skills peculiar to the grace and elegance of the Chinese people.

According to Ms Anyadike, China is setting the stage significantly with these initiatives and solid support from the government is a bonus.

“This funding strategy is crucial and the results are readily seen across China. Integrating both the tangible and intangible into the restoration plans is a holistic approach that forms the bedrock of a sustainable cultural conservation practice that promises to protect the living traditions and ensure a lasting contribution to national pride and continuity for generations to come”, She explains.

“China is undoubtedly on course to becoming the world’s next superpower, but what truly amazes me is its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and educating the younger generation about its rich history”, says Kamran Yousaf, Senior Journalist with Pakistan Express Media Group.

He admits that his visit to Yan’an, the cradle of the Chinese revolution, was a remarkable experience. According to him, he had never realised how deep and vibrant Chinese culture and history truly are.

As President Xi Jinping famously said: “If you want to understand 100 years of China’s history, visit Shanghai; for 1,000 years of history, go to Beijing; and for 3,000 years of history, visit Xi’an.”

“The visit to the Terracotta Army excavation site in Xi’an was nothing short of breathtaking. What impressed me the most was the genuine enthusiasm with which young Chinese people engage with their history, a reflection of a nation deeply connected to its roots even as it marches toward the future”, he adds.

Restoration of historical monuments is a multidisciplinary field focused on preserving and repairing significant cultural and historical structures.

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This involves careful documentation, research and the use of traditional materials and techniques to maintain the structure’s authenticity and historical integrity.

Restoration not only preserves cultural heritage but also provides educational and research opportunities and can boost tourism and local economies.

The Chinese have really done it in a big way and as a result, they turned it into a money-making machine raking in millions (possibly billions) of Yuan every year.

According to experts there are key aspects of historical monument/heritage restoration that one must keep in mind. One of them is documentation and research.

Thorough research and documentation of the monument’s history, original materials and construction techniques are crucial before any restoration work begins.

In this area they have really made use of their historians and the number of records available can be traced back to centuries. Another one is preservation of authenticity.

In this one, restorers prioritise the preservation of original materials and architectural details whenever possible, minimising the use of modern materials.

At the Terracotta army restoration centre, archaeologists are using clay to mould former warriors and resemblances are remarkable.

When using traditional materials and techniques, restorers often involve the use of traditional materials and craftsmanship, such as stone, brick and specific building techniques, to maintain the monument’s historical character.

Cleaning processes of excavated material are crucial for removing dirt, dust and atmospheric deposits, while stabilisation techniques are used to strengthen the structure and prevent further damage.

Glue is highly used here and media delegates had the chance to part in the restoration process.

Restoration ensures that historical monuments are preserved for future generations, allowing them to learn from and appreciate their cultural past. This explains the presence of students and children at the historical sites during the visit.

There is no doubt that restored monuments serve as valuable resources for education and research, providing insights into history, architecture and craftsmanship that can be passed on to the next generation. Let’s look at the economic impact of restoring and preserving the historical sites and monuments.

As stated earlier on, they often attract tourists, which can lead to economic development in the surrounding areas through increased tourism and business opportunities.

Apart from Xian, the same can be said in other areas such as Yan’an and Beijing to mention but a few.

With an entrance fee of 120 yuan (about 40,000 Tanzania Shillings) per person and half of that for children, one can really imagine how much money is accrued.

“One of the most important things to take away from this visit is a sense of identity and pride among Chinese. With strong influence from the western world and often coupled with wrong narratives.

These people have maintained their norms and traditions and are historically passing them from one generation to another,” says Elikana Kuhenga, Cultural, Sports and Entertainment Editor for the Daily News of Tanzania.

He argues that cultural tourism is especially crucial in areas rich in cultural landmarks and history such as Bagamoyo, Kilwa and Pangani in Tanzania.

Visitors are drawn to unique cultural experiences and heritage. If local communities can strongly identify with their heritage, it could not only foster pride and sense of belonging but also generate income for both the locals and the nation at large”, he concludes.