Is Si Thep Ready for the Spotlight?
Updated: 2023-09-29 06:49:00
via Time, 28 September 2023: The concerns over the management of the newly-inscribed Si Thep site seems to be gaining international coverage, with Time magazine covering the surge in tourism that has both locals and experts concerned. The site has seen an influx of about 20,000 visitors in just one weekend, leading to issues like overcrowding, potential damage to ancient structures, and inadequate infrastructure.
via South China Morning Post, 28 Sep 2023: The My Son Sanctuary, often considered Vietnam's answer to Cambodia's Angkor Wat, has been newly restored to showcase its ancient Hindu temple complex. Located near Hoi An, the site was the political and religious capital of the Champa kingdom from the 4th to 13th centuries. The six-year restoration project, a collaboration between Vietnamese authorities and the Archaeological Survey of India, has revitalized the site's red-brick towers and intricate carvings, attracting a surge in visitors.
via Bangkok Post, 28 September 2023: Travel piece featuring the rich cultural heritage of Sukhothai, focusing on traditional Thai-Puan weaving techniques and ancient temples. The Suntree Thai Weaving Center in Si Satchanalai district serves as a living museum where visitors can learn about traditional weaving. The piece also delves into the historical significance of Si Satchanalai and Sukhothai Historical Parks.
via Bangkok Post, 28 September 2023: This editorial in the Bangkok Post argues that while Si Thep's recent UNESCO World Heritage Site designation is a milestone, the government's conservation plan overlooks the well-being of local residents. The current plan, which focuses on tourism and heritage conservation, risks displacing the community without adequate compensation or involvement.
via The Thaiger, 26-27 September 2023: Following its recent UNESCO World Heritage designation, Si Thep Historical Park has experienced an unprecedented surge in tourism. While the influx has led to calls for better facilities and accommodations, it has also raised concerns among locals about potential damage to sacred sites within the park, particularly Khao Klang Nok. Authorities are now considering measures such as a climbing ban to preserve the site's sanctity.
via Khmer Times, 27 September 2023: The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts in Cambodia has issued a statement concerning the construction of a temple in Thailand that has been criticized for resembling Angkor Wat. The temple, located in Buriram Province, Thailand, has sparked outrage among Cambodian social media users. From the images, it doesn't look like a copy of Angkor Wat although it certainly is Angkor-ish. There is ancient Khmer architecture found in present-day Thailand, and local Thais consider it part of their heritage as well.
via Hanoi Times/Vietnam Net, 27 September 2023: The Heritage House at 86 Hang Bac Street in Hanoi's Old Quarter is a treasure trove of Vietnamese history. From its origins as a royal mint in the era of Emperor Le Thanh Tong to its role as a hub for revolutionary activities against French colonial rule, the house has witnessed significant historical events.
via Khmer Times, 27 September 2023: The APSARA National Authority's Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology is actively restoring the Naga balustrades at Angkor Wat's southern ground floor.
via Radio Free Asia, 27 September 2023: Conservation efforts in Bagan, Myanmar's ancient city, have been compromised due to the withdrawal of international teams following the 2021 coup. This has led to increased, often unregulated, construction activities, including hotel expansions and office buildings near heritage sites. The junta's focus on tourism and lack of heritage impact assessments are exacerbating the situation, raising concerns among conservationists and locals alike.
via Sabay News, 26 September 2023: In this article in Khmer, the APSARA Authority's technical team has been working on repairing the damaged stones of Angkor Wat's Bakan. h/t Alison in Cambodia
via Asian Archaeology, 18 September 2023: Paper by Buckley delves into the origins and spread of spindle whorls across southern China and Southeast Asia. The study reveals that the presence of spindle whorls in mainland Southeast Asia is closely tied to Neolithic agricultural practices, particularly rice farming. Southwestern China is identified as a pivotal center for weaving innovation, influencing ethnolinguistic groups and weaving techniques still in use today.
The ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute has internship positions open, including one at the Archaeology Unit. Deadline for applications in 2 October 2023.
via Scientific Reports, 27 September 2023: Study by Bacon et al. delves into the environmental contexts and dietary habits of Denisovans and early Homo sapiens in Southeast Asia, particularly in Laos. Using stable isotope values and faunal evidence, the research reveals that Denisovans primarily consumed plants and/or animals from open forests and savannahs, despite the presence of nearby canopy forests. In contrast, early Homo sapiens exploited resources from more forested areas, indicating different adaptive strategies between the two species.
EFEO Siem Reap reports on the recent passing of Professor Bruno Dagens, French archaeologist and art historian noted for his work in Cambodia.
Readers may be interested in this new book by Taylor Easum about the urban history of Chiang Mai, from Amsterdam University Press..
via Khmer Times, 26 September 2023: The National Authority of Preah Vihear has announced a temporary suspension of visits to the Koh Ker temple on September 29, 2023, from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The closure is to facilitate a national prayer ceremony celebrating the temple's recent inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
via Thai PBS, 25 September 2023: Si Thep, an ancient town in Phetchabun Province, Thailand, has recently gained attention due to its UNESCO World Cultural Heritage recognition. Known as the "Lost Hindu Town," it was rediscovered in 1904 and has remained relatively obscure compared to other Thai historical sites like Sukhothai and Ayutthaya. The town is a melting pot of Dvaravati, Hindu, and ancient Khmer arts and has a rich history of salt and iron production.
via Khmer Times, 25 September 2023: The APSARA authority has clarified photography rules for Angkor. Tourists are encouraged to take photos for personal use, sharing traditional culture and historical significance on social media platforms without the need for permission. However, prior approval is required for YouTube filmmakers or advertisers using Angkor's images for commercial purposes, as it could impact the site's historical integrity.
via Hanoi Times/Vietnam Net, 25 September 2023: An exhibition space dedicated to showcasing artifacts from the Thang Long Imperial Citadel is set to open in Toulouse, France. This initiative, the second of its kind in France, aims to highlight the historical significance of these artifacts and foster cultural exchange between Hanoi and Toulouse.
via Channel NewsAsia, 24 and 25 September 2023: The Singapore Armed Forces will conduct an on-site disposal of a 100kg World War II aerial bomb discovered at a construction site in Upper Bukit Timah. The operation will necessitate the evacuation of over 4,000 residents, businesses, and a school, and will result in road closures. Authorities have advised residents to comply with detailed instructions for their safety.
via The Star, 24 September 2023: The Melaka Museum Corporation has launched a RM30 (US$6.40) entrance pass that grants tourists access to five key museums in its first phase. The pass aims to make cultural exploration more affordable while ensuring the maintenance of state heritage assets. Future plans include expanding the pass to cover additional museums.
via Vietnam Plus, 24 Septemner 2023: The National Archives Centre IV in Lam Dong, Vietnam, recently hosted an exhibition and cultural event focused on Nguyen Dynasty woodblocks and heritage conservation in the digital age. Nearly 200 delegates participated, exploring the use of hologram, 3D mapping, and virtual reality technologies to better understand and preserve these ancient woodblocks, which are recognized as Vietnam's first World Documentary Heritage by UNESCO.
via SBS Filipino, 23 September 2023: The Filipino Saturday School in Australia, founded by community volunteer Jade Cadelina, is on a mission to reconnect Filipino-Australians with their cultural heritage. Recently, the school introduced classes on Baybayin, an ancient Filipino script, enriching its curriculum and offering a deeper connection to Filipino culture. This initiative aligns with broader efforts in the Philippines to integrate Baybayin into educational programs and preserve it as a cultural treasure.
via The Star, 25 September 2023: The archaeological discoveries at Sungai Batu in Kedah, Malaysia. Led by archaeologist Professor Datuk Dr. Mokhtar Saidin, the research team has unearthed evidence of ancient iron smelting workshops, trading ports, and religious temples.