Qingtian Holds Series of Events to Commemorate the 715th Anniversary of Liu Ji's Birth

Liu Ji, courtesy name Bowen, was a renowned politician, military strategist, and literary figure during the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties. As one of the most iconic cultural figures of Qingtian, Zhejiang Province, he represents an important symbol of the county’s rich historical heritage. On July 28, Qingtian held a series of events, including the unveiling ceremony of the stele marking the “Hometown of Liu Wencheng, the Duke Chengyi of the Ming Dynasty” and the opening ceremony of the Liu Ji Memorial Hall, to commemorate the 715th anniversary of his birth.

In the morning, the Liu Family Ancestral Hall at the foot of Taihe Mountain in Qingtian welcomed visitors with a solemn yet vibrant atmosphere. Originally built during the Jiajing period of the Ming Dynasty by imperial decree, the ancient hall has undergone comprehensive restoration and exhibition upgrades. Reopened as the Liu Ji Memorial Hall, it presents Liu Ji’s life journey, from his early studies and self-cultivation to his political career, governance philosophy, scholarship, contributions to the founding of the Ming Dynasty, and deep connection with his hometown. Centered on his pursuit of the “three enduring legacies” — virtue, achievements, and writings — the exhibition highlights his life stories and spiritual legacy.

On the same day, the “Hometown of Liu Wencheng, the Duke Chengyi of the Ming Dynasty” stele, originally erected during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, was relocated back to its original site at Qingximen in the ancient city. Together with the stele “Memorial Ceremony for Duke Chengyi”, dating back to the Zhengde period of the Ming Dynasty and preserved inside the Liu Family Ancestral Hall, the “Record of the Ji Family’s Hushan Charitable School” stele at the Ji Family Ancestral Hall in Gaohu Town, and the Liu Wencheng Memorial Hall at Shimen Cave, these historical sites are collectively known as the “Three Steles and Two Memorial Halls”. Along with the former site of Shimen Academy, Cangshu Cave, Baiyuan Cave, Guoshi Bed, and Cliff Inscriptions, they form some of the most valuable physical heritage related to Liu Ji culture in Qingtian.

The commemorative events follow the theme of “shaping the soul through culture, benefiting the people through culture, and revitalizing the city through culture”. Through cultural performances, academic forums, international communication initiatives, and cultural tourism integration, the events aim to promote the inheritance and revitalization of Liu Ji’s cultural legacy. In addition to the stele unveiling and memorial hall opening, more events will be launched, including the study tour program “Young Liu Ji: Learning in Qingtian”, themed lectures on Liu Ji culture, and a provincial invitation exhibition featuring renowned calligraphers’ works inspired by Liu Ji’s legacy. These activities pay tribute to Liu Ji’s historical contributions while bringing his spirit into contemporary life and highlighting the renewed vitality of Liu Ji culture in Qingtian, the hometown of overseas Chinese.

（Source: Qingtian County Publicity Department）