The government invites Thai citizens to celebrate UNESCO’s recognition of Phu Phrabat as Thailand’s eighth World Heritage site and fifth cultural heritage site, with the celebration set to occur in Udon Thani on February 28.
Deputy spokeswoman for the Prime Minister’s Office, Sasikarn Watthanachan, announced that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has formally recognized Phu Phrabat Historical Park in Udon Thani as a World Heritage Site, honoring the ancient Sima stone tradition from the Dvaravati period.
This recognition secures Thailand’s eighth World Heritage site and its fifth dedicated to cultural heritage. Notably, it marks the second such site in Udon Thani, following the Ban Chiang archaeological site, which UNESCO acknowledged in 1992.
Audrey Azoulay, the director general of UNESCO, has officially signed and endorsed the declaration.
The celebration will commence at 4 pm on February 28 at Phu Phrabat Historical Park, featuring the installation of the World Heritage emblem.
The event will showcase a variety of activities and performances, such as traditional art by the Tai Phuan community of Ban Phue district, a ceremonial tree planting in honor of the monarchy, signage installations promoting tourism, a Buddhist blessing at the ancient Nang Usa Tower Site, and theatrical renditions of the Phu Phrabat legend alongside a Khon performance.
“Registering Phu Phrabat Historical Park as a World Heritage site is a source of pride for Thailand and its people,” Sasikarn said.
“It reflects the value and significance of Thai cultural heritage on an international level. The government believes that this will be a driving force in promoting cultural tourism, enhancing the country’s potential, and creating sustainable economic opportunities for local communities.”
Archaeological investigations indicate human occupation and activity in Phu Phrabat spanning 2,500 to 3,000 years, with discoveries including over 54 ancient rock paintings.
Modifications of natural rock formations into religious sanctuaries have been observed, reflecting various cultural epochs such as the Dvaravati, Khmer, Lan Xang, and Rattanakosin eras, illustrating the evolving social beliefs of the region’s inhabitants.
These archaeological findings chronicle the transformation of northeastern Thailand’s culture and civilization from prehistoric times to the modern era, highlighting the area’s extensive historical, religious, and social significance.
Given its archaeological importance, the Department of Fine Arts secured permission from the Forest Department to utilize 3430 rai (approximately 549 hectares) of the National Forest Reserve for preservation as an archaeological site.
The site’s official recognition was recorded in the Royal Gazette in 1981, and since then, ongoing efforts have been made to develop and preserve it, culminating in its designation as Phu Phrabat Historical Park.
Phu Phrabat Historical Park was officially inaugurated on June 26, 1992, in a ceremony presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
Under the stewardship of the Fine Arts Department, Region 8, Ministry of Culture, the park is dedicated to the management, conservation, development, and research of its archaeological assets.
The park not only serves as a significant cultural educational center but also as a popular tourist attraction.
Within its confines, the park houses 78 registered archaeological sites, which collectively underscore the historical and cultural continuity of northeastern Thailand. These sites are vital for understanding the cultural evolution of this region.
