Phu Phra Bat, Niah Caves into the World Heritage List
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 22- 28 July 2024
Selamat Pagi and สวัสดีครับ! A double greeting this morning to commemorate two new additions to the Unesco World Heritage List which was announced over the weekend: Thailand's Phu Phra Bat Historical Park and Malaysia's Niah Caves. The former is an archaeological landscape in Udon Thani known for its rock formations that have been used over a long period of time - containing rock paintings, rock shelters converted to Buddhist use, and also standing boundary stones known as sima/sema. These stones are the focus of World Heritage listing, although it should be noted that the sema stone tradition is found all over northeast Thailand. Phu Phra Bat is a site I know quite well, as I studied it as part of my PhD research and spent a couple of weeks staying at the site way back when. Perhaps I will dig up some old pictures and footage from those times and present them as a virtual tour in a later post.
The Niah Caves is the second site to be listed as Unesco World Heritage during this year’s committee deliberations. The site is renowned for the discovery of the "Deep Skull", a human skull dating back approximately 40,000 years, making it one of the oldest modern human remains found in Southeast Asia. This find, along with other skeletal remains, tools, and artifacts, provides crucial insights into early human migration and habitation in the region. Later excavations reveal that the archaeological evidence from Niah Caves spans a vast period, pushing the period of human habitation to 65,000 years ago. I was also fortunate to visit these caves some time ago, before Covid, when they started to think about nominating it for World Heritage.
Congratulations to both Malaysia and Thailand, and I hope they are prepared for the inevitable rush of tourists that are sure to come to the site. Many of the archaeological features in Phu Phra Bat, in particular, are exposed with minimal barriers to prevent tourists from touching them. Aside from the two new sites, UNESCO has also urged Laos and Cambodia to invite monitoring teams to their heritage sites. This recommendation aims to address concerns over the impact of nearby developments and ensure the preservation of these invaluable cultural landmarks.
Read on for more archaeology stories from the past week, from groundbreaking discoveries and academic conferences to collaborative solutions for cultural conflicts and restoration projects. Thank you to one new supporter asked to remain anonymous. If you would like to be a supporter, consider buying me a coffee. Supporters get full access to the archives and the occassional bonus post.
And now, on to the news:
Contents
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Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
[Paper] Examining trade routes through the Thai–Malay Peninsula: A simulation analysis
via Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology, 22 July 2024: A simulation analysis using a digital elevation models explores early trade routes across the Thai–Malay Peninsula, revealing potential transpeninsula paths that could connect historical records and archaeological sites. The study identifies five zones based on these routes and suggests areas for future archaeological discoveries, enhancing understanding of early human movement and trade in Southeast Asia.
[Video] Les fouilles archéologiques du site de Vat Sang’O 5, province de Champassak, Sud-Laos
via EFEO/You Tube, 16 July 2024: Since 2014, excavations at Vat Sang’O 5 in Champassak, South Laos, led by Christine Hawixbrock of EFEO, have uncovered a high-ranking pre-Angkorian habitat. The French Archaeological Mission collaborates with Lao PDR’s Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and the Vat Phu-Champasak World Heritage Site, funded by EFEO, AFD, and France’s Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
[CFP] The Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology
Readers may be interested in this call for papers for the Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology in Lisbon, Portugal, in September 2025. Deadline for submissions is 15 October 2024.
Kedah’s 1200-Year-Old Buddha Statue Rewrites History
via Free Malaysia Today, 25 July 2024: A lifesize Buddha statue dating back to the 7th or 8th century CE has been discovered in Bukit Choras, Kedah, by a team led by Nasha Rodziadi Khaw of Universiti Sains Malaysia. This remarkable find includes two other incomplete statues and ancient inscriptions in Pallava script.
via Quaternary Science Reviews, 18 August 2024: Evidence from the Tanimbar Islands shows human occupation dating back 42,000 years, highlighting early maritime technology and exploitation of land and marine resources. The discovery includes macropod remains, suggesting possible back migration from Sahul to Wallacea, and emphasizes Tanimbar’s role in early human migration from Sunda to Sahul.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Niah Caves and Phu Phra Bat
[Back to Contents]
Some of the links below are affiliate links which mean I may get a commission if you click on them and make a purchase.
Buddhist Landscapes: Art and Archaeology of the Khorat Plateau, 7th to 11th Centuries by Stephen Murphy
Sacred Rocks and Buddhist Caves in Thailand by Christophe Munier
Defining Dvāravatī by Anna Bennett and Hunter Watson (eds.)
Rainforest Foraging and Farming in Island Southeast Asia: the Archaeology of the Niah Caves, Sarawak by G. Barker (ed.)
The archaeology of the Niah Caves, Sarawak: Volume II by Graeme Barker and Lucy Farr (eds.)
New Research
[Back to Contents]
If you have a newly-published paper that you wish to publicise, contact me and I’ll add it into the next newsletter.
[Paper] Marine records reveal multiple phases of Toba’s last volcanic activity
via Scientific Reports, 18 July 2023: Caron et al. presents a new interpretation of the eruptive history of the Indonesian Young Toba Tuff, suggesting that the volcanic activity lasted much longer, around 50,000 years, with the main explosive phase spanning about 10,000 years and consisting of 6 eruptive events, potentially impacting global climate and human migration and evolution.
via AVI REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION STUDIES, 08 July 2024: Taninai Ichitomo, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Japan in Cambodia, reflects on the evolution of ICC-Angkor since its inception in 1993. He emphasizes the need for updated methods, sustainable development, and global knowledge sharing to address future challenges in heritage preservation. As someone who’s attended the ICC-Angkor numerous times, it’s an interesting read, to see the perspective of the chair.
[Paper] Examining trade routes through the Thai–Malay Peninsula: A simulation analysis
via Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology, 22 July 2024: A simulation analysis using a digital elevation models explores early trade routes across the Thai–Malay Peninsula, revealing potential transpeninsula paths that could connect historical records and archaeological sites. The study identifies five zones based on these routes and suggests areas for future archaeological discoveries, enhancing understanding of early human movement and trade in Southeast Asia.
via Quaternary Science Reviews, 18 August 2024: Evidence from the Tanimbar Islands shows human occupation dating back 42,000 years, highlighting early maritime technology and exploitation of land and marine resources. The discovery includes macropod remains, suggesting possible back migration from Sahul to Wallacea, and emphasizes Tanimbar’s role in early human migration from Sunda to Sahul.
[Paper] Ancient genomes reveal over two thousand years of dingo population structure
via PNAS, 08 July 2024: A study analyzing ancient DNA from dingoes reveals over 2,000 years of population structure in Australia. The research, highlighting minimal modern dog hybridization, shows early dingo adaptation and migration patterns, including a genetic link with New Guinea singing dogs. This data aids in dingo conservation and management.
Announcements
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
[CFP] The Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology
Readers may be interested in this call for papers for the Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology in Lisbon, Portugal, in September 2025. Deadline for submissions is 15 October 2024.
Upcoming Events
[Back to Contents]
Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
12-13 September 2024: ASEAN Museum Forum 2024 (Bangkok, Thailand)
23-26 September 2024: International Forum on the Spice Route (Jakarta, Indonesia)
17-19 July 2025: Decolonization of Southeast Asian Studies Workshop (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
8 - 13 September 2025: The Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology (Lisbon, Portugal)
New to the Online Lecture Library
[Back to Contents]
The following are newly published lectures about the archaeology and art of Southeast Asia, available to view for free. For a full searchable list, check out my Online Lecture Library.
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
[CFP] The Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology
Readers may be interested in this call for papers for the Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology in Lisbon, Portugal, in September 2025. Deadline for submissions is 15 October 2024.
ANU’s Sue O’Connor Elected to British Academy
via Canberra Times, 19 July 2024: Prof. Sue O’Connor, who was my supervisor at the Australian National University, has been elected as an International Fellow of the British Academy. This prestigious honor recognizes her contributions to archaeology, particularly her work on early human migration and settlement in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
UNESCO Urges Laos and Cambodia to Invite Monitoring Teams to Heritage Sites
via The Washington Post, 25 July 2024: UNESCO has recommended that Laos invite a monitoring mission to Luang Prabang due to concerns over a nearby dam’s impact on the heritage site. Similarly, Cambodia is urged to welcome experts to Angkor amid allegations of human rights abuses during relocations. Both countries show willingness to cooperate with UNESCO to preserve these significant cultural sites.
APSARA Authority Uncovers Angkorian Iron Smelting Site on Phnom Bok
via DAP News, 23 July 2024: Archaeologists from the APSARA Authority are excavating an ancient smelting station at Phnom Bok, aiming to understand Angkorian iron production. The dig involves local students and has uncovered iron ore and pottery fragments, confirming the site’s historical significance in producing tools and armaments for the Khmer Empire.
Storm Topples Tree at Angkor Thom, Fatality Reported
via AP, 24 July 2024: A severe storm at Cambodia’s Angkor temple complex toppled a tree, killing a tuk-tuk driver and injuring three passengers near the Angkor Thom gate. The incident, which damaged several statues, highlights the vulnerability of this popular archaeological site, visited by over half a million tourists in the first half of 2024.
Construction Begins on Siem Reap’s Historical Museum
via Khmer Times, 19 July 2024: The construction of the Samdech Preah Brahma Rattanamony Pin Sem Museum in Siem Reap aims to boost tourism and preserve Cambodia’s cultural and historical treasures.
via AVI REVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION STUDIES, 08 July 2024: Taninai Ichitomo, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of Japan in Cambodia, reflects on the evolution of ICC-Angkor since its inception in 1993. He emphasizes the need for updated methods, sustainable development, and global knowledge sharing to address future challenges in heritage preservation. As someone who’s attended the ICC-Angkor numerous times, it’s an interesting read, to see the perspective of the chair.
Collaborative Solutions Needed for Thai-Cambodian Cultural Conflict
via Thai PBS, 08 July 2024: Thai PBS World explores the ongoing cultural heritage conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, exacerbated by online content and nationalist sentiments. Experts stress the need for responsible media and collaborative efforts to mitigate tensions and promote mutual understanding.
Cambodian Officials Dispute Angkor Complex Safety Concerns
via Khmer Times, 21 July 2024: The APSARA Authority and the National Committee for Coordination of Information and Public Works have strongly refuted a false report by Cambodia Daily Khmer alleging fraud and theft at the Angkor complex. The authorities emphasized their commitment to tourist safety and hospitality, noting that no complaints have been received regarding such incidents.
14 Cambodian Artefacts Repatriated Thanks to SOAS Project
via SOAS, 17 July 2024: A project led by SOAS’s Professor Ashley Thompson facilitated the return of 14 looted artefacts from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to Cambodia. This marks a significant achievement in Cambodia’s restitution campaign, with hopes for more returns in the future. The artefacts, including a rare bronze statue, highlight the importance of academic involvement in cultural heritage preservation.
[Job] Librarian – Center for Khmer Studies
Librarian position open at the Center for Khmer Studies in Siem Reap, open for Cambodian nationals. Deadline is 28 July 2024.
Renovation of Wat Preah Enkosei Vihara Completed
via Khmer Times, 21 July 2024: The Department of Land Management and the Apsara National Authority have successfully completed the renovation of the ancient vihara at Wat Preah Enkosei. The meticulous restoration, led by Sim Bunthoeun, preserved the vihara’s authentic form using original materials, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Cambodia’s architectural heritage.
Groundbreaking for Beng Mealea Restoration Project
via Khmer Times, 21 July 2024: The Apsara National Authority is set to restore the eastern causeway of Beng Mealea Temple, with support from the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Fund. The project underscores Cambodia’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage, with international cooperation highlighting the temple’s significance within the Angkor site.
UNESCO Urged to Condemn Angkor Evictions
via Khmer Times, 20 July 2024: Ahead of UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee meeting, Amnesty International urges member states to condemn Cambodia’s forced eviction of families from Angkor. Despite Cambodia’s claims that the evictions were lawful, Amnesty highlights human rights violations and calls for measures to ensure evicted families receive effective remedies and protection.
Angkor Wat’s Western Causeway Cofferdam to be Removed
via Khmer Times, 19 July 2024: The Apsara Authority is removing the 230-meter-long cofferdam from Angkor Wat’s Western Causeway after completing restoration. The process will restore natural water flow and enhance the site’s aesthetics, allowing visitors to appreciate the newly repaired bridge structure.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
via Quaternary Science Reviews, 18 August 2024: Evidence from the Tanimbar Islands shows human occupation dating back 42,000 years, highlighting early maritime technology and exploitation of land and marine resources. The discovery includes macropod remains, suggesting possible back migration from Sahul to Wallacea, and emphasizes Tanimbar’s role in early human migration from Sunda to Sahul.
Preserving the Heritage of Southeast Asia’s Sea Nomads
via The Lowy Institute, 19 July 2024: Southeast Asia’s sea nomads, including the Moken, Bajau, and Orang Laut, face an uncertain future due to climate change, overfishing, and unsupportive government policies. These communities, vital for ocean conservation, risk losing their traditional way of life and cultural heritage. Coordinated regional efforts are essential to preserve their unique maritime existence and environmental knowledge.
Laos
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Laos]
UNESCO Urges Laos and Cambodia to Invite Monitoring Teams to Heritage Sites
via The Washington Post, 25 July 2024: UNESCO has recommended that Laos invite a monitoring mission to Luang Prabang due to concerns over a nearby dam’s impact on the heritage site. Similarly, Cambodia is urged to welcome experts to Angkor amid allegations of human rights abuses during relocations. Both countries show willingness to cooperate with UNESCO to preserve these significant cultural sites.
[Video] Les fouilles archéologiques du site de Vat Sang’O 5, province de Champassak, Sud-Laos
via EFEO/You Tube, 16 July 2024: Since 2014, excavations at Vat Sang’O 5 in Champassak, South Laos, led by Christine Hawixbrock of EFEO, have uncovered a high-ranking pre-Angkorian habitat. The French Archaeological Mission collaborates with Lao PDR’s Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism and the Vat Phu-Champasak World Heritage Site, funded by EFEO, AFD, and France’s Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Malaysia’s Niah Caves Added to World Heritage List
via various sources, 27 July 2024: Niah Caves in Sarawak, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site during the 46th World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi. This recognition highlights the caves’ archaeological significance, which spans 50,000 years of human history. Malaysia now boasts five UNESCO sites.
via Marine Policy, October 2024: This paper by Nik Nurhalida et al. argues that Malaysia needs to revise its National Heritage Act of 2005 to better protect its intangible maritime heritage and underwater cultural sites. Despite existing regulations, many heritage sites have been damaged due to illegal activities. Strengthening domestic laws and cooperating regionally and internationally is crucial for preserving these cultural assets for future generations.
Kedah’s 1200-Year-Old Buddha Statue Rewrites History
via Free Malaysia Today, 25 July 2024: A lifesize Buddha statue dating back to the 7th or 8th century CE has been discovered in Bukit Choras, Kedah, by a team led by Nasha Rodziadi Khaw of Universiti Sains Malaysia. This remarkable find includes two other incomplete statues and ancient inscriptions in Pallava script.
New Book Chronicles Kelabit Village History in Borneo
via Malay Mail, 22 July 2024: The book Border History of a Borneo Longhouse (affiliate link) authored by anthropologist Datin Valerie Mashman, was launched in Amsterdam. It explores the history of Long Peluan in the Kelabit Highlands, highlighting the village’s resilience and values through warfare, migration, peace-making, and Christian conversion. This work is significant for Austronesian studies, Southeast Asian history, and the anthropology of value and social change.
DNA Study of ‘Penang Woman’ Sheds Light on Prehistoric Malaysia
via Citizens Journal, 19 July 2024: The discovery of the ‘Penang Woman’ at Guar Kepah, Malaysia, offers groundbreaking insights into prehistoric human life. DNA and radiocarbon analysis, led by Universiti Sains Malaysia, aim to unveil her genetic and historical background, potentially reshaping our understanding of early human migration and culture in Southeast Asia.
Ancient Kedah Findings to Be Added to School Curriculum
via Bernama, 11 July 2024: The National Unity Ministry, led by Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, is considering incorporating recent findings on Ancient Kedah, based on Yi-Jing’s records, into the history curriculum. These findings highlight Bujang Valley’s significance as a prosperous trading center and its historical ties with China.
Preserving the Heritage of Southeast Asia’s Sea Nomads
via The Lowy Institute, 19 July 2024: Southeast Asia’s sea nomads, including the Moken, Bajau, and Orang Laut, face an uncertain future due to climate change, overfishing, and unsupportive government policies. These communities, vital for ocean conservation, risk losing their traditional way of life and cultural heritage. Coordinated regional efforts are essential to preserve their unique maritime existence and environmental knowledge.
Kedah Buddha Statue Discovery Prompts Cautious Excitement
via The Vibes, 19 July 2024: Archaeologists call for further research on a newly discovered Buddha statue in Kedah’s Bujang Valley, dating back to the 8th or 9th century. This significant find suggests the region’s ancient human activity and highlights the need to protect and study the site to understand its historical context fully.
Heritage and Harmony: Peranakan Legacy in Southeast Asia
via Bangkok Post, 19 July 2024: The Chinese Peranakan communities in Southeast Asia, such as those in Penang, Malacca, and Phuket, demonstrate the positive outcomes of cultural assimilation. These communities, descendants of early Chinese immigrants who integrated with local populations, preserve a unique blend of traditions and cuisines, reflecting the benefits of cultural fusion.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
Karenni State Artifacts Safeguarded from Conflict Damage
via the Irrawaddy, 19 July 2024: In response to military shelling in Loikaw, Myanmar, the Karenni State Interim Executive Council moved the museum’s ancient bronze drums and artifacts to safe locations, preventing potential theft. Initial reports of looting were false, as confirmed by the council.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
New NHCP Chair: Expert on Philippine Church Heritage
via Inquirer, 17 Jul 2024: Regalado Trota Jose, a distinguished expert in the history and heritage of Philippine churches, has been appointed as the new chair of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. His expertise includes modernizing the UST Archives and contributing to numerous publications on Philippine church history.
Ordinances Needed to Safeguard Iloilo’s Heritage
via Panay News, 23 July 2024: Iloilo’s Provincial Culture, Arts, History, and Tourism Office is urging local government units to enact ordinances to protect cultural heritage sites. PCAHTO chief Gilbert Marin emphasizes the need for cultural mapping to justify the protection of significant sites, aligning with the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009.
Historic Caysasay Church Unveils Restoration and Cultural Markers
via Inquirer, 22 July 2024: The historic Caysasay Church in Taal, Batangas, has been restored and rededicated by the National Museum and National Historical Commission of the Philippines. Damaged by the Taal Volcano eruption in 2020, the church underwent extensive restoration, including the Santa Lucia well. The project, celebrated with a dedication ceremony, highlights the church’s cultural and historical significance.
Cebu Church Restoration Gets Major Budget Boost
via Manila Times, 22 July 2024: The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority has increased the budget for restoring the historic Nuestra Señora del Pilar Church in Sibonga, Cebu, to P100 million. Initially proposed at P15 million, the increase follows a detailed assessment of typhoon damage. Restoration includes structural consolidation, interior refurbishments, and exterior enhancements, ensuring the preservation of this Level 2 Historical Site, established in 1866, for future generations.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
Heritage and Harmony: Peranakan Legacy in Southeast Asia
via Bangkok Post, 19 July 2024: The Chinese Peranakan communities in Southeast Asia, such as those in Penang, Malacca, and Phuket, demonstrate the positive outcomes of cultural assimilation. These communities, descendants of early Chinese immigrants who integrated with local populations, preserve a unique blend of traditions and cuisines, reflecting the benefits of cultural fusion.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Phu Prabat Historical Park Joins UNESCO World Heritage List
via various sources, 27 July 2024: Phu Prabat Historical Park in Udon Thani, Thailand, has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site during the 46th session in New Delhi. The park, notable for its unique rock formations and archaeological significance, becomes Thailand’s fifth cultural World Heritage site. Entry fees are waived from July 28 to August 12 to celebrate the listing.Royal Barges on Display at Ratchaworadit Pier This Weekend
via The Nation, 25 July 2024: Bangkokians are invited to see three royal barges on display at Ratchaworadit Pier on July 28-29, in celebration of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday. The Royal Thai Navy will present the barges Suphannahong, Narai Song Suban HM King Rama IX, and Anantanakkharat, accompanied by recitals of the “boat song” twice daily. An exhibition on royal barge processions will also be featured.
UNESCO Set to Declare Phu Phra Bat a World Heritage Site
via The Nation, 25 July 2024: Phu Phra Bat Historical Park in Udon Thani is expected to be named a UNESCO World Heritage Site this week, potentially becoming Thailand’s fifth cultural heritage site. The decision will be made during the 46th World Heritage Committee session in New Delhi. The park features ancient ruins and rock shelters from various historical periods.
Thai Olympic Jerseys Inspired by Ban Chiang Heritage
via Pattaya Mail, 20 July 2024: Thailand’s Olympic jerseys for Paris 2024 feature designs inspired by the prehistoric pottery of Ban Chiang. The jerseys, made from recycled plastic bottles, reflect the unique red cord markings of Ban Chiang pottery, celebrating Thailand’s cultural heritage on the global stage.
Collaborative Solutions Needed for Thai-Cambodian Cultural Conflict
via Thai PBS, 08 July 2024: Thai PBS World explores the ongoing cultural heritage conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, exacerbated by online content and nationalist sentiments. Experts stress the need for responsible media and collaborative efforts to mitigate tensions and promote mutual understanding.
[Paper] Examining trade routes through the Thai–Malay Peninsula: A simulation analysis
via Journal of Island and Coastal Archaeology, 22 July 2024: A simulation analysis using a digital elevation models explores early trade routes across the Thai–Malay Peninsula, revealing potential transpeninsula paths that could connect historical records and archaeological sites. The study identifies five zones based on these routes and suggests areas for future archaeological discoveries, enhancing understanding of early human movement and trade in Southeast Asia.
Preserving the Heritage of Southeast Asia’s Sea Nomads
via The Lowy Institute, 19 July 2024: Southeast Asia’s sea nomads, including the Moken, Bajau, and Orang Laut, face an uncertain future due to climate change, overfishing, and unsupportive government policies. These communities, vital for ocean conservation, risk losing their traditional way of life and cultural heritage. Coordinated regional efforts are essential to preserve their unique maritime existence and environmental knowledge.
Heritage and Harmony: Peranakan Legacy in Southeast Asia
via Bangkok Post, 19 July 2024: The Chinese Peranakan communities in Southeast Asia, such as those in Penang, Malacca, and Phuket, demonstrate the positive outcomes of cultural assimilation. These communities, descendants of early Chinese immigrants who integrated with local populations, preserve a unique blend of traditions and cuisines, reflecting the benefits of cultural fusion.
Discover Ancient Temples in Chiang Mai’s Suburbs
via South China Morning Post, 16 July 2024: Wiang Kum Kam, located 5km south of Chiang Mai, was the first capital of the Lanna Kingdom before being abandoned due to flooding. Rediscovered in the 1980s, this ancient site offers a unique glimpse into Thailand’s past with its restored 13th-century temples amidst modern suburban life.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Three Sites Added to Vietnam’s Special National Heritage List
via Viet Nam News, 24 July 2024: Three sites in Vietnam have been designated as Special National Heritage Relics: Xóm Trại Cave and Mái Đá Làng Vành in Hòa Bình, Vĩnh Hưng ancient tower in Bạc Liêu, and the Trương Định Uprising area in Tiền Giang. These sites showcase significant archaeological, historical, and cultural values, enriching the nation’s heritage portfolio.
New Bilingual Book Showcases Vietnam’s National Treasures
via Vietnam Plus, 24 July 2024: The “Thousand Years of Vietnam National Civilisation,” a bilingual Vietnamese-English book, highlights Vietnam’s 294 recognized national treasures. Published by the Su That National Political Publishing House and the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the book offers a chronological journey through Vietnam’s rich history, culture, and significant artifacts.
Restoration Begins for Historic Dien Khanh Citadel
via Vietnam Plus, 08 July 2024: The Dien Khanh ancient citadel in Khanh Hoa, built in 1793, will undergo restoration starting September 2024. This project, funded by the provincial budget at over 166 billion VND, aims to preserve the site’s historical and cultural significance using traditional methods and materials.
Hai Van Gate Restoration Nears Completion
via Vietnam Express, 21 July 2024: Hai Van Gate, located at the peak of Hai Van Pass in central Vietnam, has undergone a three-year renovation costing over VND42 billion. This historic site, nearly 200 years old and recognized as a national relic, now awaits visitors as it nears completion. Efforts are ongoing to resolve management plans between Da Nang City and Thua Thien Hue Province to open the site to the public by the third quarter of 2024.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
[CFP] The Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology
Readers may be interested in this call for papers for the Fourth Conference of European Association for Asian Art and Archaeology in Lisbon, Portugal, in September 2025. Deadline for submissions is 15 October 2024.
[Paper] Ancient genomes reveal over two thousand years of dingo population structure
via PNAS, 08 July 2024: A study analyzing ancient DNA from dingoes reveals over 2,000 years of population structure in Australia. The research, highlighting minimal modern dog hybridization, shows early dingo adaptation and migration patterns, including a genetic link with New Guinea singing dogs. This data aids in dingo conservation and management.
ANU’s Sue O’Connor Elected to British Academy
via Canberra Times, 19 July 2024: Prof. Sue O’Connor, who was my supervisor at the Australian National University, has been elected as an International Fellow of the British Academy. This prestigious honor recognizes her contributions to archaeology, particularly her work on early human migration and settlement in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.