On August 29, 2024, Vienna Cammarota, a 74-year-old Italian traveler, arrived at the Irkeshtam Port in Wuqia County, located in the western border region of China, marking the official start of her hiking journey along the Chinese section of the ancient Silk Road.

 Pic from China Daily

Pic from haiwainet.cn

That afternoon, Vienna arrived at the historic city of Kashgar, receiving a warm welcome from the local people. During the dinner, Yan Dong, the vice president of The Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, reflected on Vienna's remarkable journey over the past two years as she retraced the ancient Silk Road on foot, following in the footsteps of Marco Polo. Vienna also stated that she would share her experiences and insights from China with more people back in Italy.

Pic from haiwainet.cn

As early as April 26, 2022, Vienna set off from Lazaretto Nuovo Island in Venice, traveling eastward along the ancient Silk Road. She carried a heavy backpack weighing 32 pounds, filled with The Travels of Marco Polo, the flag of Venice, and a Chinese sachet symbolizing peace. Over the past two years, she has overcome various practical difficulties and mental pressures, traversing mountains and rivers, crossing cities and villages in different countries, and gaining a deep understanding of the history, culture, and customs of the regions along her route. By exploring ancient relics, Vienna not only witnessed the profound changes in the world but also shared her observations and insights with people from around the globe.

Vienna is cheerful, open-minded, good at communication, and has worked as a tour guide until her retirement. She has traveled through almost all the mountains in Italy and has completed many long-distance hikes. As the first woman to attempt retracing the ancient Silk Road, Vienna hopes to build a bridge of friendship among people from different countries through her efforts.

In May 2023, Vienna watched the China-Central Asia Summit in Xi'an online, which heightened her anticipation for the city. "I have read many books about the Silk Road with descriptions of Xi'an, which shaped my image of the city. It has thick city walls, many markets, and its architecture is very traditional. The markets in this city date back to the period of the ancient Silk Road and represent a continuation of the entire Silk Road’s heritage. I am really looking forward to it." Vienna said.

 Pic from China Daily

This year marks the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo's passing, making Vienna's journey particularly significant. In her upcoming itinerary, Vienna will trek through provinces and cities including Xinjiang, Gansu, Qinghai, Shandong, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shanxi, Zhejiang, Fujian, and Shaanxi, all the way to Xi'an and Beijing, continuing her walking journey to promote the spirit of friendship and cultural exchange.