Two Thai Sites Penciled in as Potential UNESCO World Heritage List

UNESCO has accepted a Thai proposal to consider adding two cultural sites in the Northeast to the list of World Heritage Sites.

Thailand´s World Heritage Committee has proposed 11 natural and cultural sites for consideration since early last year, director of the Natural and Cultural Environment Conservation Division, Ratchavadee Sriprapat, said last week.

The first site accepted for initial consideration is the cultural route of Prasat Hin Phimai (Phimai Stone Ruin) and associated religious sites around Prasat Hin Phanom Rung and Prasat Muang Tam in Nakhon Ratchasima, recognized for unique artistic works in the area.

The second site is Phu Phra Bat Historical Park in Udon Thani, which includes South-East Asian cultural relics dating back to prehistoric times.

The Fine Arts Department will send reports detailing site information and master management plans to UNESCO, which will send a fact-finding committee to examine the sites and determine whether they will be added to the World Heritage list.

Prasat Hin Phimai was built in the 10th century and has been described as the largest Khmer sanctuary in Thailand, and one of the finest examples of classical Khmer architecture in the style of Angkor Wat. It was once linked by a direct road to Angkor.

Prasat Hin Phanom Rung is in Buri Ram and dates back to the 12th century. Located on the peak of an inactive volcano it has an impressive 200-metre avenue leading to its main building, which is adorned with stone carvings and friezes.