The UNESCO World Heritage Committee has conferred the prestigious status of a “Cultural World Heritage Site” upon “The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments” in Phetchabun province, Thailand.
Si Thep and Dvaravati Monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site
This designation marks the seventh World Heritage Site in Thailand.
The Ancient Town of Si Thep was formally included in the UNESCO World Heritage List during the 45th extended session of the World Heritage Committee, which convened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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This newly designated World Heritage Site comprises three key elements: a unique twin-town complex with Inner and Outer Towns encompassed by moats, the impressive Khao Klang Nok ancient monument, and the historic Khao Thamorrat Cave monument.
Collectively, these sites serve as a testament to the architectural marvels, artistic traditions, and rich religious diversity of the Dvaravati Empire that once flourished in Central Thailand from the 6th to the 10th centuries.
They reflect profound Indian influences on the region. Local adaptations of these influences ultimately gave rise to a distinctive artistic tradition known as the Si Thep School of Art, which subsequently influenced other civilizations across Southeast Asia.
Thailand now boasts seven World Heritage Sites, with four dedicated to cultural heritage: the Historic Town of Sukhothai and Associated Historic Towns (1991), the Historic City of Ayutthaya (1991), Ban Chiang Archaeological Site (1992), and the recently added “The Ancient Town of Si Thep and its Associated Dvaravati Monuments.”
Additionally, three natural sites hold this esteemed status:
- Thungyai-Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuaries (1991);
- Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Forest Complex (2005); and
- Kaeng Krachan Forest Complex (2021).
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To commemorate this significant recognition, the Fine Arts Department has announced the waiver of admission fees at Si Thep Historical Park from 20 September to 24 September 2023.
Furthermore, a special exhibition, detailing the historical significance of Si Thep Historical Park as a World Heritage Site, is scheduled at the Bangkok National Museum from 20 September 2023 to 14 January 2024.
The Ancient Town of Si Thep is nestled in Phetchabun province, approximately 340 kilometres north of Bangkok.
Phetchabun is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, characterised by majestic mountains and enchanting mists, making it a sought-after destination for trekking and camping enthusiasts.
Among Phetchabun’s renowned attractions are several national parks, including Khao Kho, Nam Nao, Phu Hin Rong Kla, and Thung Salaeng Luang.
The region also boasts the tallest peak, Phu Thap Boek, the iconic five white Buddha statues at Wat Phrathat Pha Son Kaeo, and the picturesque That Yai Waterfall, which was among the finalists in the “Unseen New Chapters” campaign, highlighting Thailand’s natural beauty.
