"Daedalus, the mythical craftsman … represents, as his name allows, artistic and technological advancement, creativity and innovation," said the Ambassador of Greece to China Evgenios Kalpyris at the opening ceremony of the exhibition on Monday. "These are not just Greek characteristics. They are universal."

A series of related public lectures and educational programs will be available during the exhibition to further stir the public's interest in ancient civilizations from the rest of the world, and also serve as a celebration of the Palace Museum's centennial anniversary this year.

"Promoting dialogue among civilizations is the only way to deepen international cooperation," says Stella Chryssoulaki, general director of the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. "To this end, museums are transforming from inward-looking institutions to outward-looking, multifaceted organizations. They become fora for mutual respect and trust among countries with different backgrounds."