Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin thanked UNESCO on September 19, 2023, for granting the historic village of Si Thep, a birthplace of the Dvaravati culture, the esteemed designation of UNESCO World Heritage Site. An important turning point in Thailand’s attempts to preserve its cultural legacy has been reached with this designation.
In a formal statement titled “The Ancient Town of Si Thep, Inscribed as Thailand’s 7th World Heritage Site,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offered comprehensive details on this historic accomplishment.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin thanked UNESCO on September 19, 2023, for granting the historic village of Si Thep, a birthplace of the Dvaravati culture, the esteemed designation of UNESCO World Heritage Site. An important turning point in Thailand’s attempts to preserve its cultural legacy has been reached with this designation.
In a formal statement titled “The Ancient Town of Si Thep, Inscribed as Thailand’s 7th World Heritage Site,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offered comprehensive details on this historic accomplishment.
During the 45th extended session of the World Heritage Committee (WHC), which was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the decision was made to inscribe the “Ancient Town of Si Thep” on the World Heritage List. The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was the driving force behind the creation of the 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, which served as the framework for this inscription.
With the addition of the “Ancient Town of Si Thep,” Thailand now has seven World Heritage sites. Among the current World Heritage sites in Thailand are:
Sukhothai Historic Town and Related Historic Towns
Ancient Ayutthaya City
Kha Khaeng and Thungyai-Huai Wildlife Sanctuaries
Site Archaeological of Ban Chiang
The Khao Yai Forest Complex in Dong Phayayen
Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex
Three interconnected cultural sites make up the “Ancient Town of Si Thep,” which is located in the Phetchabun Province: Khao Klang Nok, Khao Thamorrat Cave Ancient Monument, and the Ancient Town of Si Thep. All all, these locations testify to a history spanning more than 1,500 years.
There is proof that human settlement has continued into the modern era due to the distinctive terrain of the region around the Ancient Town of Si Thep, which has aided human existence since prehistoric times. It is evidence of the ongoing relationship that exists between this historic landmark and the local community.
Known as the “Si Thep Master of Art,” the “Ancient Town of Si Thep” is distinguished by its unique artistic and architectural style. Its special qualities set it apart from other cities of the same era in Dvaravati, further contributing to its cultural value.
The Thai people are extremely proud that the “Ancient Town of Si Thep” has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It not only draws attention to this historic town’s cultural significance on a worldwide scale but also marks the start of cooperative efforts to preserve, repair, and safeguard this priceless location. It is hoped to become a vibrant learning hub and a treasure for people everywhere as well as for years to come.
On November 16, 1972, the UNESCO General Conference enacted the 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, which currently has 195 States Parties. The worldwide efforts to support Egypt and Sudan in transferring the Abu Simbel temples, with the backing of UNESCO, served as the impetus for the creation of this treaty. The Aswan High Dam being built in Egypt at the time posed an immediate threat of submersion for these ancient structures.
The nations’ determination to preserve outstanding natural and cultural sites for the benefit of future generations and to increase public awareness of these sites’ significance is demonstrated by their choice to become States Parties to the Convention. Si Thep’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to safeguarding and presenting its rich cultural legacy to the global community.
