The presentation of the three-volume edition at the UNESCO office in Paris

On December 4, 2024, UNESCO Headquarters in Paris hosted a significant event to launch the second volume of its “Thematic Collection of Cultural Exchanges along the Silk Road”. Titled “Architecture, Monuments, and Urbanism”, this section was developed through a collaborative effort between UNESCO, the Nanjing Creative Center, and the Nanjing Expo of Historical and Cultural Cities.

The publication highlights the importance of the architectural heritage along the Silk Road and underscores the role of cultural exchange in fostering intercultural dialogue. The event saw the participation of chapter authors, editors, publishers, and UNESCO representatives from a diverse range of countries, including the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Kazakhstan, China, Uzbekistan, Italy, France, and others. During the event, the contributors engaged in lively discussions about the content of the new volume, with authors presenting their chapters through dynamic and engaging presentations.

Among the key contributors to the three-volume series is Professor Mavlyuda Yusupova Aminjanovna, Director of the “Silk Road” International Research Institute under the “Silk Road” International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage in Uzbekistan. As the author of two chapters, she delivered presentations focused on pivotal aspects of Central Asian architecture and urbanism:

- “Civic Buildings of Central Asia: Libraries, Bathhouses, Water Cisterns, and Bridges”(Volume I).

- “Shibanid and Post-Shibanid Bukhara (1500–1650)” (Volume II).

Professor Yusupova’s research offers valuable insights into the architectural features, urban planning, and typology of buildings in Central Asia, as well as their interactions along the Silk Road, making a significant contribution to the broader understanding of this rich cultural heritage.

The three-volume series was initially published in English, with translations currently underway. A Chinese edition is expected to be released in 2025. The publication of this second section further exemplifies the successful collaboration between UNESCO and the city of Nanjing, aimed at preserving and promoting the Silk Road’s diverse and invaluable heritage.