The sisterly bond between the Chinese city of Hangzhou and the Italian city of Verona originates from their shared connection to famous love stories celebrated worldwide.

The tragic romances of the Chinese Butterfly Lovers and Italy's Romeo and Juliet share similar human sensibilities, despite differences in time and culture.

In 2000, Verona was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its historical richness and well-preserved architecture. Hangzhou is home to three UNESCO sites: the West Lake, the Grand Canal, and the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City.

China and Italy, the two countries boasting the most worldwide heritage sites, are well aware of their roles as guardians of ancient civilizations.