Vienna Cammarota, a 75-year-old Italian hiker, has embarked on a remarkable journey to retrace the ancient Silk Road from Venice to Beijing, inspired by her lifelong admiration for Marco Polo. With over two years and 14 countries behind her, Cammarota aims to reach China, exploring history and culture along the way.
A Lifelong Passion Ignites an Epic Journey
Cammarota, a tour guide from Italy, has been captivated by Marco Polo since childhood. This passion, combined with her interest in China sparked 20 years ago by a student from Beijing, led her to repeatedly study “The Travels of Marco Polo.” Fascinated by the ancient Silk Road, she conceived the idea of retracing the 22,000-kilometer route.
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Support and Preparation
Initially met with skepticism by her children, Cammarota’s meticulous planning eventually won their support. The proposal, shared online, attracted assistance from Zhu Yuhua, president of Associazione Cina-Italia di Shanghai (ACIS), who provided a detailed itinerary and volunteer support team. Departing from Lazzaretto Nuovo Island in Venice on April 26, 2022, Cammarota carried with her a 16-kilogram backpack, including “The Travels of Marco Polo,” the Venice city flag, and a Chinese sachet.
Overcoming Challenges and Gaining Insights
Cammarota’s trek across countries such as Italy, Serbia, Türkiye, Iran, and Kazakhstan has been filled with practical challenges and enriching experiences. Engaging in conversations with locals, she has deepened her understanding of diverse cultures and the historical significance of the Silk Road.
Witnessing Modern Transformations
Throughout her journey, Cammarota observed the impact of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in various regions. She saw the Peljesac Bridge in Croatia, constructed by a Chinese consortium, and the Pengsheng Industrial Park in Uzbekistan, where Chinese drip irrigation technology reduced labor costs. In Tajikistan, she witnessed the revitalization of the China-Tajikistan highway by Chinese enterprises.
A Message of Inspiration
As Cammarota nears the completion of her journey, she reflects on the wisdom gained through real-life experiences, echoing the sentiments of Lu You, a poet from China’s Southern Song dynasty. She encourages others to pursue their dreams, emphasizing that nothing is impossible.
Cammarota’s journey along the ancient Silk Road not only honors Marco Polo’s legacy but also fosters international friendship. With China in sight, she is excited to fulfill her dream and deepen her understanding of the modern nation.
Source: Tracing the Journey of Marco Polo: An Epic Adventure
