Throughout human civilization, bell-ringing has played many different roles in music, clocks, faith celebrations and ceremonies of state.

On Aug. 23, bells across the world rang along with Taiwan’s Centennial Peace Bell emphasizing the value of peace. 

More than 10 nations including Korea, Switzerland and Canada rang their bells simultaneously, adding to the international Sounds of Peace.

The date of Aug. 23 is important in Taiwan’s history because it is the date of a 1958 artillery bombardment on the island of Kinmen which the shook the world.

“The ringing of the bell signifies Taiwan’s belief that peace is a value treasured and shared by all men, that it is not only a state of non-warring, but a situation that is necessary between man and the environment, and most importantly a humble understanding of respect and acceptance between human beings,” said Representative of Taipei Mission Liang Ying-ping.

(yoav@heraldcorp.com)