The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced the designation of the ancient city of Si Thep as a world cultural heritage during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee, which took place from September 10 to 25, 2023, in Riyadh, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The prestigious recognition includes three culturally related and interconnected heritage sites: the Ancient City of Si Thep, the Archaeological Site of Khao Khlang Nok, and the Archaeological Site of Khao Thamorat Cave .
With the addition of the ancient town of Si Thep to UNESCO’s World Heritage sites, Thailand now proudly possesses four world cultural heritage sites. Previously, the Historic City of Ayutthaya, the Historic Town of Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai, and Kamphaeng Phet, along with the Ban Chiang Archaeological Site in Udon Thani Province, had received this esteemed designation.
Located in Phetchabun Province, 450 kilometers north of Bangkok, the ancient town of Si Thep emerged as an urban center from a prehistoric farming village in the Lopburi-Pa Sak River Valley, dating back 2,500 to 1,500 years ago. Thanks to intensive salt and iron production and its strategic location between the Chao Phraya lowland and the Korat Plateau, Si Thep underwent significant development and evolved into a prominent hub for trade and cultural exchange.
During its golden era, spanning from the sixth to eleventh century, Si Thep played a pivotal role in the Dvaravati culture.
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In celebration of Si Thep’s recognition as a new UNESCO World Heritage site, the Fine Arts Department of Thailand has announced the waiver of admission fees for visiting the Si Thep Historical Park in Phetchabun Province from September 20 to 24, 2023.
Additionally, an exhibition titled “Si Thep and World Heritage” will be hosted at the National Museum in Bangkok, running from September 20, 2023, to January 14, 2024. This exhibition aims to highlight the history, value, and significance of the ancient city of Si Thep, both to the Thai public and international tourists, while also commemorating Si Thep’s official registration as a world heritage site.
