Bonino Gabriella speaks at the launch ceremony of her new book on Wenzhou. The book was compiled in Italian. [Photo/wzrb.com.cn]
A book compiled by an Italian sinologist on the cultural connections between Wenzhou and East Asian culture was launched on Nov 25, local media outlets reported.
"I feel flattered to see you distinguished guests here for the launch of my book," said the Italian sinologist Bonino Gabriella, who goes by the Chinese name Tang Yun. "I spent three years preparing for this book – traveling around the city, doing research and interviews, and referring to other researchers' works on Wenzhou's history, culture, dialects, folk customs, and intangible cultural heritage."
Gabriella said she first came to know Wenzhou in 2015 when she was doing research on the Maritime Silk Road and has visited many ancient port cities. She began working as a professor at the Wenzhou Business College in 2017 and has since delved into the city's diverse culture.
"I've studied the School of Yongjia and learned that the down-to-earth manner promoted by the philosophy has had a significant influence on Wenzhou people today," Gabriella said. "I've also visited ancient towns and alleys in Wenzhou and recorded the traditional food, landscapes, rhymes, and opera shows there."
Her book won recognition from cultural circles in Wenzhou. It is also expected to help promote Wenzhou culture overseas.
The launch ceremony was organized by the Wenzhou bureau of culture broadcasting and tourism and the information office of the Wenzhou municipal government.
Gabriella shares her new book with local Wenzhou residents. [Photo/wzrb.com.cn]
