In May 2025, Upon the 10th anniversary of the San Marino Confucius Institute, a series of international exchange activities on Chinese Medicinal Culture, themed "Embracing Nature through TCM" were held in various locations across Italy and San Marino. Organized by San Marino Confucius Institute, these events featured a delegation of TCM intangible cultural heritage inheritors from Beijing City University. Together, they hosted an international symposium and lecture tour to further promote the integration and communication of TCM culture in Europe.
The event series encompassed an International Symposium on TCM, specialized lectures on diagnostic methods and preparations, both listed as intangible cultural heritage, and experimental workshops on TCM culture, offering a rich array of contents presented in diverse forms, fully showcasing the unique charm and timely value of TCM culture.
The International Symposium on TCM, held at the main campus of the University of San Marino, brought together experts and scholars from institutions such as the University of San Marino, Beijing City University, University of Urbino, University of Siena, and American International Medical University. Discussions revolved around key topics including "Traditional Chinese Medicine and Modern Health Management", "Nutrition and Natural Healing", and "Five Elements Theory and Physical-Mental Wellness". Participants shared academic findings, exchanged practical experiences, and explored the applied value of TCM in contemporary health management systems and its international communication pathways. The symposium was marked by a vibrant academic atmosphere, with intense intellectual exchanges providing theoretical insights and practical directions for TCM’s further integration into European healthcare.
Following the symposium, a lecture tour and workshops were conducted at multiple venues, including the San Marino Confucius Institute, TCM cultural promotion partners in Vicenza, the Confucius Institute at the University of Padova, and the universities of Padova and Venice. These sessions introduced basic concepts of TCM, traditional diagnostic methods, and classic herbal preparation techniques in an accessible manner to over 200 enthusiastic participants.
During the workshops, attendees experienced Acupoint Therapy firsthand, with some experiencing immediate relief from neck and shoulder pain, marveling at the remarkable effects of TCM techniques. Many participants also showed great interest in learning aboutherbal medicines and their uses, actively engaging in the making of Hawthorn Pills, thereby gaining a deeper appreciation for the unique efficacy and natural philosophy of TCM.
The series themed "Embracing Nature through TCM", not only serve as highlights of the 10th-anniversary celebration of the San Marino Confucius Institute, but also acted as a vital platform for the global exchange of TCM culture. Through multi-layered, multi-dimensional and interactive displays, TCM culture has reached closer to the European public consciousness, continuously elevating the role of traditional medicine in global health systems and showcasing the wisdom and appeal of Chinese culture—"people-oriented harmony with nature."
