Cultural relics displayed in the Quanzhou Maritime Museum [Photo/www.itravelqq.com]

Ding Yuling, director of the Quanzhou Maritime Museum, said in an interview that the stone tablets were the best proof of overseas exchanges during Quanzhou’s boom period. She also added that the French visitors were amazed when they saw the replica of the stone tablets at the exhibition, marveling at the complete records of the world’s marine navigation history.

Quanzhou port was honored as “The biggest port in the East” in the Song and Yuan dynasties, and there have been vessels incessantly coming in and out of the port since its opening. The Maritime Silk Road started here, transporting Chinese treasures to every corner of the world. And businessmen flocked to Quanzhou from around the world. But as time elapsed, all the glories faded away and were forgotten.

The establishment of the new pavilion will bring back the glorious history and refresh people’s memories of Quanzhou’s prosperous days.