#China #Hangzhou #Silk Road #China National Silk Museum #Heritage Preservation

Call for Papers for the Silk Road Week Symposium

The China National Silk Museum is set to host the much-anticipated Symposium of the Silk Road Week in June 2026. This event aims to delve into the rich cultural values of the Silk Road and promote the preservation of its cultural heritage, alongside the advancement of innovative museum practices and research on Silk Road civilizations.

Theme Overview

The symposium will revolve around important themes, with a particular emphasis on cultural heritage and intangible cultural traditions along the Silk Road. Scholars and professionals from museums, academic institutions, and research bodies are encouraged to submit their academic works. The central themes of the event will include:

1. Integrative Approaches to Cultural Heritage Preservation and Ecological Sustainability
Exploring how to create synergistic approaches that protect Silk Road cultural heritage while promoting ecological sustainability.

2. Research on Multi-Ethnic Cultural Exchange
Investigating how heritage impacts the interplay of diverse cultures along the Silk Road through empirical research and theoretical frameworks.

3. Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage
Developing practices and mechanisms that ensure the living transmission of intangible cultural heritages along the Silk Road.

4. Technological Advancements in Preservation
Utilizing interdisciplinary methodologies and technological innovations aimed at the scientific conservation of cultural relics.

Submission Guidelines

Interested authors should note the following deadlines for their submissions:

• - Abstract Submission: Opens immediately and closes on April 20, 2026.
• - Full Paper Submission: Following the acceptance of abstracts, full papers will be due by May 28, 2026.

Requirements for Submissions

Authors are free to choose their own paper titles, which must be presented in both Chinese and English. Each submission should include:

• - A bilingual abstract of approximately 300 words.
• - 3-5 relevant keywords.
• - Research purposes, methodologies, conclusions, and innovative insights must be included in the abstract.

Author Information

At the end of each manuscript, authors must provide their details in both languages: full name, gender, birthdate, professional title/position, academic degree, email address, phone number, postal address, and postal code, along with institutional affiliation.

Participants with accepted papers will be invited to present their work at the Symposium, and notifications will be sent exclusively to successful applicants. Additionally, all applicants may register to attend the symposium as listeners.

Special Recognition

The symposium will honor two outstanding paper authors under the age of 38 by including them in the China National Silk Museum's 'Splendid Scholars' Support Program.' This program will provide financial assistance for their travel and accommodation expenses for participation.

Submission Method

Manuscripts and related materials should be emailed to [email protected]. Please format the email subject as follows: 'Symposium on the Silk Road Week + Author Name + Affiliation + Paper Title.'

The Silk Road is not merely a historic trade route; it embodies a rich tapestry of cultural exchange that has shaped civilizations. This symposium not only seeks to honor that legacy but aims to foster a dialogue among contemporary scholars about the innovations and challenges in cultural heritage preservation today. It promises to be a significant event for anyone engaged with Silk Road studies and cultural heritage management. Join us in advancing this vital discourse and contributing to the preservation of Silk Road heritage for future generations.