Si Thep Historical Park: Thailand’s Ancient City Awaits UNESCO World Heritage Status

Si Thep Historical Park: Thailand’s Ancient City Awaits UNESCO World Heritage Status

UNESCO Considers Si Thep Historical Park for World Heritage Status

The Si Thep Historical Park, an ancient city located in the Phetchabun province of Thailand, is under consideration for inclusion in the list of new World Heritage Sites by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The site is one of 50 being scrutinized by the World Heritage Committee during its 45th meeting held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. If approved, Si Thep could benefit from financial aid and conservation advice from UNESCO experts.

Competing for Recognition

The Si Thep Historical Park is a cultural heritage site competing with several others from around the globe for the prestigious recognition this year. Among the fellow contenders are the Mezincara Temple in Nîmes, France; the ancient city of Gordian in Ankara, Turkey, and the Viking Ring Fortress in Denmark. Since 1978, UNESCO has been designating World Heritage Sites based on criteria such as outstanding universal value.

Local Anticipation and Responsibility

Phetchabun Governor Krit Kongmuang has expressed that the local community has long been advocating for the Si Thep ancient city to receive the status of a World Heritage Site. Anticipating a positive outcome from the UNESCO meeting, the community has planned festivities at the Si Thep Historical Park. The governor has also extended an invitation to Thai citizens nationwide to join in the celebration.

Furthermore, the Governor emphasized the community’s duty to protect and preserve the archaeological site, which is over 1,000 years old. Beyond being a treasure for the people of Phetchabun, the site is also a national asset and, if recognized, will gain global heritage status.

A Glimpse into Si Thep’s Historical Significance

Si Thep Historical Park, located in Phetchabun province, is a significant site of the Dvaravati culture. Spanning over 1,700 years of history, the ancient city has been on the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites since April 2019. Si Thep is acknowledged for its strategic location, serving as a hub for trade, exchange, and cultural diffusion during the late prehistoric period and the Khmer culture period in the 13th century CE.

The town’s location was chosen wisely by local inhabitants, making it a suitable spot for connecting and spreading culture and trade goods intra and inter-regionally. Over a long period, it played a crucial role as a center of trade, exchange, and culture. The town also participated in inter-regional cultural and economic exchange networks, acting as a hub on an ancient trade route that linked people from the central plains in the central region and the Khorat plateau in northeastern Thailand, as well as areas in the east and west of Southeast Asia.

Final Decision: A Matter of Anticipation

The Thai delegation, fully prepared, expressed confidence in addressing any concerns the committee might have. Jatuporn Buruspat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, anticipated positive results as all necessary documentation had been submitted. The final decision on whether Si Thep Historical Park will secure a coveted spot on UNESCO’s list of world cultural heritage sites is awaited with bated breath. If successful, the recognition will boost the park’s reputation as a significant educational and tourist destination, earning international recognition.