Venice hosted a celebration of Chinese tea culture on Nov 28 as part of the second anniversary of the inclusion of "Traditional Chinese Tea-Making Techniques and Associated Customs" in UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

The event, co-organized by the China National Tea Museum and the Italian National Committee for the 700th Anniversary of Marco Polo's death, highlighted centuries-old tea traditions and their modern-day appeal.

The event featured live tea ceremonies, tastings, and exhibits, spotlighting Hangzhou's renowned West Lake Longjing tea and Jingshan tea banquet. Attendees, including over 60 representatives from Venice's government, business, education, and arts sectors, found themselves immersed in the richness of Chinese tea heritage.

An artisan presents a cup of freshly brewed tea to Laura Fincato, former vice minister of foreign affairs of Italy and mayor of Venice. [Photo/WeChat account: teamuseum]

Special presentations included the "Double Treasures of West Lake" – Longjing tea paired with water from Hangzhou's Hupao Spring – served with exquisite seasonal tea sets. Venetian tea artisans joined in, showcasing their understanding of Chinese tea-making. A tasting session of 10 Chinese representative teas left participants impressed by the diverse "Oriental flavors".

An Italian artisan presents and introduces Chinese tea to attendees. [Photo/WeChat account: teamuseum]

The event also debuted the children's book Tea Heritage in China: West Lake Longjing and the tea-themed song Aroma of Longjing Tea internationally, extending the cultural influence of Chinese tea in Italy's famed opera capital.

As 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of China and Italy's comprehensive strategic partnership and the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo's death, this event not only celebrated shared cultural heritage but also strengthened ties through a deep appreciation of tea.

The children's book Tea Heritage in China: West Lake Longjing is debuted at the event. [Photo/WeChat account: teamuseum]