The International Confucius Cultural Festival has opened in eastern China's Qufu City, birthplace of the Chinese philosopher. On Monday, a grand worshipping ceremony of the Great Teacher was held.

More than 3,000 diplomats, UNESCO officials, representatives from Confucius Institutes and Confucius' descendants attended the ceremony. It is being held to celebrate the 2,560th anniversary of his birth. The great educator and philosopher founded a way of life that deeply influenced later generations. He was the first to set up private schools and enroll students from all walks of life.