The Padua Confucius Institute initiated a series of celebratory activities over the course of one week in observance of the international "Confucius Institute Day", which attracted approximately 1000 people. It not only showcased the Confucius Institute’s characteristics, but also propelled the promotion of Chinese language and culture in the community.
On September 25, a lecture entitled “Chinese Customs and their Development Trend” introduced Chinese culture, including Chinese customs, and its changes in modern society, the origin and implication of the dragon as a Chinese cultural totem, the difference between Chinese and Western ways of greeting someone, Chinese customs of giving gifts, and cultural taboos. The lecture was widely commended by the audience.
On September 26, the cultural activity consisted of a poetry reading with the theme of “Chasing the Moon” and a “Mid-Autumn Moon” calligraphy exhibition. Guests were immersed in the joyous atmosphere of the Mid-Autumn Festival through these activities. In the evening, guests enjoyed the beautiful poems of Li Bai, Wang Wei, Su Shi and other Chinese ancient poets that highlighted feelings of homesickness while enjoying the traditional festival food, mooncakes.
On September 29, the Confucius Institute, along with the University of Padua, launched a Mid-Autumn evening party in the center of Padua with Chinese students and Padua citizens attending. The festival broadened the breadth and depth of cultural exchange between China and Italy.
Chinese