Core Points - The Beijing Municipal People's Congress held a meeting to review the draft of the "Beijing Great Wall Protection Regulations," which aims to establish a management system for the protection of the Great Wall and improve visitor management [1][2] Group 1: Legislative Framework - The draft emphasizes a shift from "rescue protection" to a balanced approach of "preventive protection" and "research-based restoration" [2][3] - The Great Wall in Beijing spans 520.77 kilometers and is recognized as one of the best-preserved and culturally significant sections among 15 provinces and cities [2] - The legislation aims to solidify practical experiences in Great Wall protection, including integrating archaeological excavations and digital initiatives [2][3] Group 2: Protection Mechanisms - The draft outlines a comprehensive protection mechanism, including defining protection zones, establishing records, and setting up protective institutions [1][4] - It mandates the establishment of a collaborative protection mechanism among Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, extending protection to related cultural relics beyond the Great Wall itself [4] - The draft specifies conditions and procedures for adjusting protection zones and construction control areas, requiring archaeological investigations for any construction within these areas [4] Group 3: Visitor Management - The draft details the management of visitor areas, including conditions for designating sections of the Great Wall as tourist sites and the responsibilities of local governments [5] - Non-tourist sections may implement measures such as electronic fences to deter climbing, while management units are tasked with enforcing these measures [5] - The draft encourages educational activities and international cooperation related to Great Wall protection [5]

Core Insights - The 2025 Beijing Cultural Forum focused on "Technology Empowering Cultural Heritage Protection and Inheritance," emphasizing the transition from reactive restoration to proactive protection of cultural heritage [1][2]. Group 1: Transition in Heritage Protection - The forum highlighted the need to shift from "rescue restoration" to "preventive protection," addressing long-term risks such as natural erosion and climate change through collaborative efforts from experts [2][3]. - Aoki Nobuno presented a systematic framework for the digitalization of Chinese architectural heritage, outlining its evolution over three decades and emphasizing the transition from crisis response to proactive preservation [2]. Group 2: Collaborative Protection Models - Zhao Hongxi discussed a collaborative protection model involving community participation, international cooperation, and technological innovation, stressing the importance of sustainable protection rather than reactive measures [3]. - Experts agreed on the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration and international exchange to standardize preventive protection technologies and establish regular monitoring systems [5]. Group 3: Digital Monitoring and Technological Integration - The second half of the forum focused on the integration of digital technologies in cultural heritage protection, showcasing advancements in remote sensing and three-dimensional visualization [6][7]. - Chen Fulong demonstrated innovative applications of multi-modal remote sensing technology, while other experts presented frameworks for integrating cultural heritage protection with regional development [6]. - The use of technologies like artificial intelligence and real-time three-dimensional modeling is seen as essential for making invisible risks visible and enhancing the efficiency of heritage protection efforts [7].

Core Viewpoint - The integration of technology, such as laser cleaning and 3D printing, is enhancing the preservation of cultural relics, as demonstrated by the newly opened visual preservation center at the Beijing Grand Canal Museum, the largest of its kind in the city [1] Group 1: Technological Integration - The preservation center showcases how multidisciplinary approaches are applied in the protection of cultural relics [1] - Technologies are empowering ancient artifacts and facilitating cultural dissemination [1] Group 2: Preventive Conservation - Preventive conservation is crucial for extending the lifespan of cultural relics and addressing issues before they arise [1] - Factors such as temperature, humidity, light, and air quality in museum exhibition halls can significantly impact the condition of artifacts [1]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the advancements in the protection and preservation of ancient grottoes, particularly focusing on the use of innovative materials and technologies, such as 3D printing and digital modeling, to enhance the longevity and integrity of these cultural heritage sites [2][6]. Group 1: Preservation Techniques - Traditional materials like lime-based or epoxy resins used for repairing sculptures are being replaced with new inorganic eco-friendly grouting materials [2]. - The implementation of isolation doors at sites like Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes has proven effective in creating a controlled microenvironment that protects against environmental factors such as wind and moisture [4][5]. - A systematic preventive protection framework is being established, transitioning from emergency reinforcement to preventive measures and from exploratory repairs to precise restorations [5][6]. Group 2: Digital Technology in Preservation - Digital technologies are being utilized to extend the life of grottoes, with techniques such as 3D scanning and modeling being employed to replicate damaged artifacts [6][7]. - The integration of smart monitoring systems is enhancing the preservation efforts, with platforms developed to track various environmental indicators [7]. Group 3: Cultural Heritage Utilization - The discussion emphasizes the need for a balance between protection and utilization of cultural heritage, advocating for diverse visitor experiences such as deep tours and educational programs [9][10]. - The development of a 5G digital management platform at Longmen Grottoes aims to improve visitor experience through better management and service delivery [10]. Group 4: International Collaboration - International cooperation in heritage preservation has expanded, with projects involving multiple countries and institutions aimed at sharing knowledge and techniques [11][12]. - The article highlights the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in heritage protection, encouraging educational institutions to foster cross-disciplinary learning opportunities [13].

Core Insights - The article discusses the advancements in the preservation of ancient rock caves, particularly focusing on the use of new materials and technologies such as 3D printing and digital modeling to enhance the longevity and integrity of these cultural heritage sites [1][5][10] Preservation Techniques - Traditional materials like lime-based and epoxy resins are being replaced with new inorganic eco-friendly grouting materials to prevent aging [1] - The implementation of isolation doors at sites like Dunhuang Mogao Caves has proven effective in creating a controlled microenvironment that protects against environmental factors such as wind and moisture [3][4] - A shift from emergency reinforcement to preventive protection is being emphasized, with a focus on systematic and holistic approaches to cave preservation [3][4] Technological Innovations - The use of 3D printing technology is being explored for repairing irregularly shaped artifacts, allowing for lightweight and adaptable solutions that blend with the surrounding environment [5] - Digital technologies are being utilized to create comprehensive monitoring systems that track various environmental factors affecting the caves [5][6] Cultural Engagement and Tourism - The article highlights the importance of balancing preservation with cultural engagement, suggesting that heritage sites should not remain closed off but should actively involve the public [8][9] - Initiatives such as night tours and targeted educational programs for different demographics are being developed to enhance visitor experience and engagement with the cultural heritage [8][9] International Collaboration - The article notes ongoing international cooperation in heritage preservation, with projects involving countries like Cambodia and Uzbekistan, showcasing a commitment to sharing knowledge and resources [10][11] - The integration of multi-disciplinary approaches in heritage preservation is encouraged, emphasizing the need for collaboration across various fields to enhance the effectiveness of preservation efforts [12]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the importance of multi-disciplinary collaboration in the protection and preservation of stone carvings and grottoes in China, highlighting recent advancements and methodologies in this field [6][7][10]. Group 1: Stone Carvings and Grottoes - The Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing are a significant cultural heritage site, with efforts underway to enhance their protection and make the carvings more accessible to the public [2]. - The Longmen Grottoes, another UNESCO World Heritage site, showcases exquisite stone carving art and is a focal point for discussions on preservation techniques [6][10]. Group 2: Multi-disciplinary Collaboration - Experts from over ten countries participated in the 2025 International Forum on Grotto Protection, sharing cutting-edge practices and theories in grotto preservation [6][8]. - The need for a multi-disciplinary approach is emphasized, with techniques from geology, hydrology, and engineering being applied to address water damage and other preservation challenges [7][9]. Group 3: Water Damage Management - Water infiltration poses a significant threat to stone carvings, with the Dazu Rock Carvings experiencing over 1000 mm of annual rainfall, leading to issues like salt efflorescence and surface erosion [7]. - Successful water damage management requires precise geological surveys and the use of advanced technologies such as geological radar and electromagnetic methods to identify water flow paths [7][9]. Group 4: Preventive Protection Strategies - The concept of "preventive protection" is gaining traction, shifting the focus from reactive measures to proactive strategies in preserving cultural heritage [10][11]. - The Longmen Grottoes have implemented a monitoring system with over 200 sensors to detect structural stability and environmental changes, demonstrating the effectiveness of preventive measures [11][12]. Group 5: Technological Innovations - The integration of artificial intelligence and digital technologies is being explored to enhance the preservation of stone carvings, allowing for real-time monitoring and analysis of environmental conditions [13][15]. - Non-destructive testing methods, such as neutron technology, are being utilized to investigate the internal structure of materials without damaging the artifacts, providing valuable insights for preservation efforts [14][15].

Core Insights - The preservation of rock cave relics is a race against time, with significant material degradation occurring annually due to environmental factors [1][2] - Effective environmental control measures have been implemented at various heritage sites, demonstrating notable progress in preservation efforts [2][3] - The integration of AI technology is expected to enhance the capabilities of environmental monitoring and control in rock cave preservation [3] Group 1: Environmental Challenges - The degradation of rock cave relics is accelerated by environmental fluctuations affecting temperature, humidity, and salt content, leading to various forms of damage [1] - In the Yungang Grottoes, the annual surface material loss from a single cave can reach approximately 3 kilograms due to weathering [1] Group 2: Preservation Strategies - The Dunhuang Academy has established a multi-dimensional environmental control system at the Mogao Caves, including protective measures against sandstorms and visitor management based on CO2 levels [2] - A systematic environmental control plan was proposed for the Dazu Rock Carvings, incorporating buffer spaces and humidity control devices to mitigate severe environmental fluctuations [2] Group 3: Technological Advancements - The use of AI technology in environmental monitoring can improve data analysis and risk prediction, transitioning preservation efforts from experience-driven to data-driven approaches [3] - AI can enable autonomous decision-making in environmental control systems, optimizing ventilation, temperature, and humidity management [3]

Core Viewpoint - The theme for China's 9th Cultural and Natural Heritage Day on June 14, 2025, is "Let Cultural Relics Shine with New Vitality." The focus is on the shift from rescue-based protection to preventive protection of cultural heritage, exemplified by the innovative "Digital Cabin" at the Xi'an City Wall [1][3]. Group 1: Digital Protection System - The Xi'an City Wall is the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China, utilizing digital technology to create a unique preventive protection system [3]. - The "Digital Cabin" management platform features over 3,000 monitoring points across the city wall, continuously gathering data on critical indicators such as wall cracks, horizontal displacement, and settlement [3][5]. - The system employs artificial intelligence for real-time analysis, enabling 24-hour monitoring of structural changes and automatic alerts to heritage conservation personnel [3][5]. Group 2: Enhanced Monitoring and Emergency Response - The "Digital Cabin" integrates functions for cultural relic protection, tourism operation, emergency management, and flood command, allowing for real-time monitoring and damage prediction of the city wall's structural health [5]. - The approach has transitioned from reactive repairs to preventive protection, establishing a 24/7 "digital sentinel" for cultural heritage [5]. - Following the principle of "minimal intervention and non-destructive detection," a comprehensive risk assessment of the entire 13.74 km wall was conducted, identifying 43 risk hazards, 1,302 voids, and 836 loose areas [7].