This article examines the historical and current development of scientific and technological （S&T） cooperation between Italy and China，two civilizations that have shaped the world and share a rich cultural heritage. The article traces the origins of S&T relations to the pioneering work of the Jesuit missionary Matteo Ricci in the late 16th and early 17th centuries，and then analyzes the main instruments and initiatives that have been established since the 1970s to foster bilateral collaboration in various fields of S&T. The article focuses on three specific sectors of cooperation：space，environment，and cultural heritage，highlighting the achievements，challenges，and prospects of joint research and innovation. The article argues that S&T cooperation is a key component of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Italy and China，and a valuable platform for mutual learning and dialogue between the two civilizations. The article also discusses the implications of the changing geopolitical context and the growing rivalry between China and the West for the future of S&T cooperation and suggests some possible ways to preserve and enhance this cooperation in the face of global challenges.