Gansu, an ancient land imbued with the essence of Chinese civilization, cradles Dunhuang - a cultural gem that shines brightly. As a key gateway on the Silk Road, Dunhuang has long been a melting pot of diverse civilizations, offering endless fascination.

Recently, Yangpu Library and the Dunhuang Contemporary Art Museum joined forces to present a captivating lecture titled Dunhuang and Silk Road Pilgrims. Held in the library's audio-visual center, the event featured Associate Professor Wu Shaowei from the School of History, Shandong University. He guided the audience on a journey across the sands of time, uncovering the paths of those who braved the desert in pursuit of cultural exchange.

Opening the lecture, Prof. Wu used ancient poems and maps of the ancient Yumen and Yangguan Passes to vividly illustrate how Dunhuang emerged as a pivotal point for the eastward journey of Buddhism. He highlighted that the creation of Dunhuang Prefecture and the governance of the Protectorate of the Western Regions transformed this area into a vital crossroads. It was not just a stop for merchants but also a perilous transit point for monks on their spiritual quests, where they braved life and death to seek the Dharma.

Drawing on a treasure trove of Dunhuang texts and images, Prof. Wu painted a vivid picture of the sutra pilgrims. From Dharmarakṣa's travels with sacred texts and his translations en route, to Faxian's journey across the desolate desert; from Xuanzang's fateful night crossing of the Yumen Pass and his encounter with the Hu people, to the spiritual transformation of the envoy Che Fengchao into the monk Wukong - each story came alive, transporting the audience through time and space to walk alongside these legendary figures.

Following the lecture, the audience participated in an enthusiastic exchange with Prof. Wu, delving into topics like Dunhuang manuscript research and the enduring spirit of the Silk Road. This interaction not only showcased the depth and breadth of Dunhuang culture but also encouraged everyone to ponder the timeless importance of cultural exchange and mutual learning.

Dunhuang stands as the crossroads where the world's four great civilizations meet, rich in Silk Road cultural heritage - a true cultural treasure chest of the Chinese nation. Countless people are deeply fascinated by Dunhuang culture, eager to draw near, listen to its tales, and behold its marvels. This event, by bringing professional lectures directly to the community, is a direct response to the public's enthusiasm for Dunhuang culture.

Looking ahead, Yangpu Library will continue its collaboration with the Dunhuang Contemporary Art Museum to roll out more premium cultural events. These efforts aim to create a platform for citizens to explore and appreciate the fine traditional Chinese culture.