The Phra Prang of Wat Arun Ratchawararam in Bangkok has been placed on the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) World Heritage Tentative List, marking a major step toward becoming a recognized World Heritage Site, according to the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (Onep).
Onep’s secretary-general, Chayanan Pakdeejit, revealed on Friday that the office had officially received confirmation from the Unesco World Heritage Committee that Phra Prang, the iconic prang-shaped chedi at Wat Arun, is now included on the tentative list in the cultural category.
He noted that the structure’s remarkable cultural and architectural significance meets Unesco’s Criteria I and II for World Heritage Site candidacy.
Phra Prang of Wat Arun exemplifies exceptional Buddhist chedi architecture under Criterion I.
This structure is distinguished by its unique shape, construction methods, symbolic importance, and elaborate artistic details, establishing it as a masterpiece.
It is especially large and intricately adorned, considered the most exquisite prang-shaped chedi in Thailand and Southeast Asia.
Under Criterion II, Mr. Chayanan explained, Phra Prang’s architectural style demonstrates the influence of Ayutthaya-era art from both its early (15th century) and later (18th century) phases.
Its design has progressively integrated unique features that characterize its identity, thereby representing a distinctive example of the Rattanakosin period (19th century to present) and standing unparalleled in Thailand and across Asia.
Mr. Chayanan added that Thailand plans to submit the complete registration documents to the Unesco committee at the World Heritage Committee meeting this July in Paris.
