China and Greece were home to ancient civilizations that, although differed, brought about major discoveries still relevant in the modern age. (Photo : Getty Images)
The Confucius Museum Qufu, Shandong Province--the birthplace of China's most famous philosopher--is set to open in the second half of this year, a local official said on Wednesday, describing it as the country's first museum to focus exclusively on the life and work of Confucius.
"Work on the exhibition center, the main building of the museum complex, has been completed, while detailed work on exhibition platforms and landscaping is underway," Zhang Lizheng, a spokesperson for the Qufu Culture Industry Park where the museum is located, told China Daily.
The $102 million museum complex consists of an exhibition center and six smaller halls that cover a total of 57,000 square meters.
The museum is a cultural project showcasing Confucian teachings and relics as well as a place for learning about traditional Chinese culture, said Yang Jinquan, deputy head of the Qufu bureau of cultural relics.
Construction of the museum began in 2013, but was temporarily suspended due to financial issues and concerns on how to present Confucius's thoughts and teachings accurately.
Yang Chaoming, head of the Confucius Research Institute, said the museum will serve as another source of information about Confucius and his teachings aside from books and Confucian temples.
"At the museum, visitors will be able to gain a more in-depth understanding about Confucius and his teachings via images, modern technologies and relics related to the sage," said Yang, who is also a member of the provincial political advisory body.
Yang Yitang, an expert on Confucian studies, said the museum will serve as a huge repository for Confucian artifacts.
"About 350,000 Confucius-related relics and archives that now rest in storerooms will be better protected and presented to the public, helping experts and tourists to learn about the sage," said Yang.
Born in 551 B.C., Confucius has deeply influenced Chinese culture and philosophy. He is also credited with establishing China's first private schools that accept students from all walks of life.
In his report to the provincial legislature, Shandong governor Guo Shuqing said the local government is committed to completing the Confucius Museum and opening it to the public this year.
