Flames, Forts, and Festivals
Flames, Forts, and Festivals
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 21 - 27 October 2024
Good Morning! This week, Southeast Asia’s heritage shines as ancient sites, once weathered by time and turmoil, are reawakened through efforts that merge preservation with resilience. Cambodia’s APSARA Authority is investing in future generations with its ceramic conservation training program, empowering local experts to save Cambodia’s fragile relics from the ravages of time. At the same time, Quang Nam province also hosted a workshop to learn about materials preservation of the Cham Towers.
In Vietnam, the ancient Pho Quang Pagoda faces a far more somber journey of revival. An 800-year-old sanctuary in northern Phu Tho Province, this pagoda recently suffered a devastating fire, losing an array of historic Buddha statues and centuries-old furnishings. Yet even as the smoke clears, the community’s resolve to rebuild has ignited fresh efforts to assess and protect what remains. Nearby in the Philippines, Cebu’s 18th-century Fort San Pedro also embarks on a path of renewal, spurred by Typhoon Odette’s destruction. With its historical architecture vulnerable to future storms, the planned renovation will go beyond preservation, seeking to fortify Cebu’s Spanish colonial legacy against a changing climate.
Meanwhile, Thailand’s Songkhla is giving the world a glimpse into its 17th-century Sultanate of Singora through a dazzling nightly illumination of Fort No. 9. This light installation not only revives the fort’s faded glory but strengthens its candidacy for UNESCO recognition, casting Songkhla’s history as a beacon for heritage tourism in the region. At the U Thong Museum in Suphan Buri, Thailand’s Neolithic era is also coming to life through a newly curated exhibition that celebrates life and artistry over 4,000 years ago. From pottery to intricate stone tools, these artifacts trace an ancient way of life, invoking our ancestors’ profound connections to the natural world—and hinting at the origins of modern craftsmanship.
Threading through these powerful revivals, the upcoming Diwali and All Saints Day remind us of the light and legacy we inherit from those who came before. In each temple, artifact, and fortress restored, we are reminded that our histories are not lost to time but living elements of our world today. This season, may we honor the past as it comes alive once more—through both the glow of Diwali and the solemn memory of All Saints Day. Happy holidays for all who observe them.
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:
Quang Nam Seeks National Treasure Status for Sa Huynh Jewelry
via International Newspaper, 20 October 2024: A collection of gold jewelry and animal-shaped agate artifacts from the Lai Nghi burial site, linked to the Sa Huynh culture, has been proposed for recognition as a national treasure by Quang Nam Provincial authorities. Discovered during excavations from 2002-2004 by Quang Nam Museum and international archaeologists, these unique artifacts offer significant cultural and historical insights. The artifacts, dating back to the Sa Huynh culture, have been well-preserved and analyzed using various methods. Quang Nam Museum plans to use digital technologies to further promote and protect these treasures.
Bagan and Popa See Surge in Visitors During Thadingyut Festival
via Global New Light of Myanmar, 19 October 2024: Bagan and Mount Popa experienced a significant rise in visitors during this year’s Thadingyut Festival, driven by both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts. Trekking tours around Popa and the newly developed villages at the mountain's base, known as the "oasis of Anyar," attracted many tourists. Popa's deer sanctuary in zone 7 also became a lively spot. Bagan saw record-breaking visitor numbers, with full hotel bookings and no e-bikes left for rent. The surge in tourism has greatly benefited local businesses, with shops and restaurants thriving from 15-18 October 2024.
See also: Xinhua/The StarRecap of the Gunung Padang Controversy
via IFLScience, 22 October 2024: I was debating to myself whether to index this story or not, it is a reacp of the Gunung Padang controversy with pseudoscientists claiming it is a man-made pyramid, while actual scientists saying it is not. Disappointingly, the article presents the controversy like an open-ended question.
Fire Destroys 800-Year-Old Pho Quang Pagoda in Vietnam
via VnExpress, 23 October 2024: The 800-year-old Pho Quang Pagoda in Phu Tho Province, northern Vietnam, was severely damaged by fire on Wednesday. Despite efforts from local residents and firefighters, much of the main hall was destroyed. Recognized as a national cultural heritage site in 1980, the pagoda housed valuable relics, including a Tran Dynasty lotus-shaped stone pedestal, which was partially damaged. The fire also destroyed 27 Buddha statues and the pagoda's furnishings, with estimated financial losses at VND25 billion (US$985,000). Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and planning restoration efforts.New Discoveries at Vuon Chuoi: 3,500-Year-Old Burials and Long Houses
via various sources, 19 October 2024: The Vuon Chuoi archaeological site in Hanoi has yielded surprising new discoveries, including over 100 prehistoric burials dating back 3,500 years, many with unusual customs like tooth extraction and stone bracelets worn above the elbow, never before seen in Vietnam. Excavations revealed the remains of long houses and other artifacts linked to the Phung Nguyen, Dong Dau, Go Mun, and Dong Son cultures. These findings offer new insights into ancient Vietnamese social organization, living spaces, and burial practices. Experts are pushing for the site's preservation, with proposals to classify it as a city-level relic or transform it into a cultural heritage park.
See also: Vietnam Net, Cong Luan, Vietnam Express, Vietnam Plus
Featured Books and Recommendations - Cambodia
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Some of the links below are affiliate links which mean I may get a commission if you click on them and make a purchase.
Angkor's Temples in the Modern Era: War, Pride and Tourist Dollars by John Burgess
Preah Khan Monastic Complex: Angkor, Cambodia (World Monuments Fund) by Michael D. Coe
Preah Bot: Buddhist Painted Scrolls in Cambodia by Vittorio Roveda
Announcements
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Contact me if you have a call for papers or job posting that you want to publicise.
UNESCO Hosts Workshop on World Heritage Archives for SE Asia
via UNESCO, 21 October 2024: UNESCO’s Regional Office in Bangkok is holding a virtual workshop titled “Introduction to World Heritage Site Archives Management in South-East Asia” on 20-21 November 2024. The event, aimed at World Heritage site managers and archivists in Southeast Asia, will provide training on organizing, preserving, and utilizing archives for heritage site conservation. Topics will include case studies from sites like Cambodia's Koh Ker, Indonesia's Borobudur, and Thailand's Ayutthaya. Led by experts from UNESCO and the Getty Conservation Institute, participants will develop tools for managing archival challenges and receive certification upon completion. Applications close on 31 October 2024.
Upcoming Events
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Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
28 October 2024: Workshop on the Impact of Kalinga on Champa in Southeast Asia (New Delhi, India)
3-6 November 2024: 9th ASEAN Traditional Textile Symposium ATTS 9 (Vientiane, Laos)
20 November 2024: Symposium on Conservation Ethics and Decision-Making (Durham, UK)
11-29 November 2024: CollAsia 2024 (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
16-17 April 2025: Crossing Boundaries: Food and Southeast Asia, 1500-Present (Singapore and Online)
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)
2026: The Indo-Pacific Prehistory Association Congress (Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Social Shoutout
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Bakás Pilipinas is on a mission to protect the Philippines' architectural heritage through meticulous conservation and community advocacy. This dedicated group is bridging the past with the future by safeguarding iconic landmarks and inspiring new generations to cherish their roots. Check out their work, support their mission, and follow their updates at Bakás Pilipinas!
I like to highlight other websites and social media accounts related to the archaeology of Southeast Asia. Contact me if you have or know of an account that deserves highlighting!
Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Southeast Asia]
UNESCO Hosts Workshop on World Heritage Archives for SE Asia
via UNESCO, 21 October 2024: UNESCO’s Regional Office in Bangkok is holding a virtual workshop titled “Introduction to World Heritage Site Archives Management in South-East Asia” on 20-21 November 2024. The event, aimed at World Heritage site managers and archivists in Southeast Asia, will provide training on organizing, preserving, and utilizing archives for heritage site conservation. Topics will include case studies from sites like Cambodia's Koh Ker, Indonesia's Borobudur, and Thailand's Ayutthaya. Led by experts from UNESCO and the Getty Conservation Institute, participants will develop tools for managing archival challenges and receive certification upon completion. Applications close on 31 October 2024.
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
APSARA National Authority Restores Historic Stairs at Bat Chum Temple
via Khmer Times, 23 October 2024: The APSARA National Authority has commenced restoration work on the east-side stairs of Bat Chum Temple, following the successful repair of the central tower. Deterioration, caused by natural decay of the laterite materials and structural instability, prompted the restoration effort. The team is dismantling and reinforcing the damaged stones, with the goal of completing the work by the end of October 2024. This restoration will ensure the stairs are stable and accessible to tourists once again.
APSARA Officers Complete Ceramic Conservation Training
via Khmer Times, 21 October 2024: Twenty officers from Cambodia's APSARA National Authority have completed a three-day training course focused on ceramic conservation and analysis. Organized by the Department of Research, Training, and Communication, the workshop aimed to enhance the skills of professionals from multiple departments, including Conservation of Monuments and the Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum. The training covered topics like ceramic inspection, production techniques, testing methods, temperature control, and porcelain identification, with the goal of improving ceramic preservation efforts in Cambodia.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Young Archaeologists Dig into History at West Nusa Tenggara Museum in Lombok
via ANTARA, 24 October 2024: The West Nusa Tenggara Museum in Mataram hosted a "Young Archaeologists" activity for 25 elementary students from Lombok on October 22, 2024. The event, in collaboration with the Indonesian Archaeologists Association (IAAI), allowed the students to engage in hands-on excavation, uncovering historical artifacts like bones, coral fossils, and jewelry, simulating the experience of professional archaeologists. The workshop aimed to inspire the next generation of archaeologists and promote awareness of the region’s rich history, which spans Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, and East Nusa Tenggara. The NTB Museum plans to continue such activities to nurture interest in archaeology among youth.Recap of the Gunung Padang Controversy
via IFLScience, 22 October 2024: I was debating to myself whether to index this story or not, it is a reacp of the Gunung Padang controversy with pseudoscientists claiming it is a man-made pyramid, while actual scientists saying it is not. Disappointingly, the article presents the controversy like an open-ended question.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
11th-Century Artifacts Unveiled at Tamoke Shinpin Shwegugyi Pagoda
via Myanmar News Agency, 21 October 2024: The Tamoke Shinpin Shwegugyi Pagoda in Kyaukse Township, Mandalay Region, is now open to pilgrims, showcasing ancient inscriptions and artifacts from the 11th to 14th centuries, spanning the Bagan to Pinya periods. This historic temple, originally built by King Anawrahta during the early Bagan period, was later transformed by King Narapatisithu in the 12th century. The pagoda houses intricate inscriptions and murals depicting figures such as Nat, Brahma, and Kinnara, as well as sculptures illustrating 550 Jataka tales.Bagan and Popa See Surge in Visitors During Thadingyut Festival
via Global New Light of Myanmar, 19 October 2024: Bagan and Mount Popa experienced a significant rise in visitors during this year’s Thadingyut Festival, driven by both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts. Trekking tours around Popa and the newly developed villages at the mountain's base, known as the "oasis of Anyar," attracted many tourists. Popa's deer sanctuary in zone 7 also became a lively spot. Bagan saw record-breaking visitor numbers, with full hotel bookings and no e-bikes left for rent. The surge in tourism has greatly benefited local businesses, with shops and restaurants thriving from 15-18 October 2024.
See also: Xinhua/The Star
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Integrating Archaeology and Indigenous Knowledge for Disaster Preparedness
via Rappler, 24 October 2024: In an editorial, archaeologist Stephen Acabado argues that Typhoon Kristine's impact underscores the importance of integrating archaeology, climate science, and indigenous knowledge in disaster preparedness. Historical examples from the Philippines, like the adaptive strategies of colonial Luzon and Batangas, highlight how communities responded to recurring natural hazards. These insights, combined with modern climate data, offer a sustainable approach to future disaster management. Acabado calls for long-term investments in interdisciplinary research to prevent repeating past mistakes and stresses the need to regulate environmental degradation to safeguard vulnerable communities.Cebu’s Historic Fort San Pedro to Undergo P11M Renovation
via Sun Star, 19 October 2024: Cebu City's historic Fort San Pedro is set to undergo P11 million in renovations following damage sustained from Typhoon Odette in 2021. The Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission submitted the rehabilitation plan to the Cebu City Council, which will now seek approval from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. Renovation works will include structural repairs, masonry, and plumbing. While the museum will remain open, a temporary closure may be considered if safety becomes a concern. Fort San Pedro, built in 1738, is the oldest triangular fort in the Philippines and a key Spanish colonial landmark.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
NHB Evaluates Historical Significance of Lee Kuan Yew’s Oxley Road House
via Straits Times, 24 October 2024: The National Heritage Board will assess whether Singapore's founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew's home at 38 Oxley Road should be preserved as a national monument. This study follows a 2018 report that acknowledged the site's historical and architectural significance, despite Mr. Lee’s preference for demolition. Current owner Lee Hsien Yang has applied for demolition, but the NHB emphasizes that this would rule out other preservation options, such as retaining the basement where key political meetings occurred. NHB's recommendations will help decide the site’s future, while keeping all options open for future governments.
See also: Channel NewsAsia
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Songkhla's Ancient Fort Illuminated to Boost Tourism and UNESCO Bid
via The Nation, 24 October 2024: Songkhla's Fort No. 9, a remnant of the 17th-century Sultanate of Singora, is now illuminated nightly to attract tourists and support its nomination for UNESCO World Heritage status. The Fine Arts Department began lighting the fort from 6 to 10 p.m. to highlight the historical significance of the site, which includes remnants of city walls, forts, and the tomb of Sultan Sulaiman Shah. The fort, located in Singha Nakhon district, has been a registered historical site since 1992. This initiative, sponsored by PTT Exploration and Production, is part of a broader effort to promote tourism and cultural heritage in Songkhla.Suphan Buri's Neolithic Heritage Showcased at U Thong Exhibition
via Thai PBS World, 22 October 2024: The "Ancestors of U Thong" exhibition at the U Thong National Museum, Suphan Buri, brings to life over 4,000 years of human history. Featuring 73 artifacts from local archaeological sites, the exhibit takes visitors through eight galleries exploring the Neolithic era and beyond. Highlights include well-crafted stone axes, pottery, and jewelry, reflecting the life and artistry of prehistoric communities. Unique finds, such as a 4,000-year-old bird sculpture and trade-related objects, reveal the region's connections with ancient cultures in southern China and Vietnam. The exhibition celebrates Thai Heritage Conservation Day 2024.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Hiep An Tran Dynasty Ceramic Jar Recognized as Vietnam's National Treasure
via Vietnam.vn, 24 October 2024: The Hiep An brown-flowered ceramic jar from the Tran Dynasty has been recognized as a national treasure by the Prime Minister of Vietnam, announced during the opening of the "Quintessence of Antiques of the Eastern Region" exhibition at Hai Duong Provincial Museum. This unique artifact, discovered in Kinh Mon town, represents the artistic peak of 13th-century Vietnamese ceramics. Alongside the Hiep An jar, the Huu Chung Bronze Drum, recognized as a national treasure in 2015, is also displayed. The exhibition showcases over 800 antiques, including items from the Nguyen and Le-Trinh dynasties.Fire Destroys 800-Year-Old Pho Quang Pagoda in Vietnam
via VnExpress, 23 October 2024: The 800-year-old Pho Quang Pagoda in Phu Tho Province, northern Vietnam, was severely damaged by fire on Wednesday. Despite efforts from local residents and firefighters, much of the main hall was destroyed. Recognized as a national cultural heritage site in 1980, the pagoda housed valuable relics, including a Tran Dynasty lotus-shaped stone pedestal, which was partially damaged. The fire also destroyed 27 Buddha statues and the pagoda's furnishings, with estimated financial losses at VND25 billion (US$985,000). Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire and planning restoration efforts.Vietnam Workshop Explores Chemical Methods in Relic Conservation
via Vietnam.vn, 22 October 2024: A workshop in Quang Nam, Vietnam, gathered experts to discuss the application of chemical technology in preserving brick and stone materials, particularly in Cham temple relics. Over 20 presentations addressed the current state of brick and stone preservation in Vietnam and globally, exploring new techniques and technologies. Attendees shared research on managing and protecting historic materials and examined case studies from the Chien Dan Cham tower and My Son site. The event aimed to enhance preservation efforts through increased cooperation and the application of modern chemical technologies.Hai Duong Museum Showcases Huu Chung Drum and Tran Dynasty Jar
via VOV, 21 October 2024: The Hai Duong Provincial Museum has launched an exhibition titled "Essence of Eastern Land-Hai Duong Antiquities," featuring two national treasures: the Huu Chung bronze drum and the Hiep An brown flower ceramic jar from the Tran Dynasty (1225-1400). The exhibition, organized by the Hai Duong Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Eastern Land Antiquities Association, showcases these significant artifacts, with the ceramic jar symbolizing the artistic peak of Tran Dynasty ceramics. Discovered in 1981, the jar was officially recognized as a national treasure in 2024. Over 800 other antiques, spanning from the Dong Son Culture to the early 20th century, are also on display.Quang Nam Seeks National Treasure Status for Sa Huynh Jewelry
via International Newspaper, 20 October 2024: A collection of gold jewelry and animal-shaped agate artifacts from the Lai Nghi burial site, linked to the Sa Huynh culture, has been proposed for recognition as a national treasure by Quang Nam Provincial authorities. Discovered during excavations from 2002-2004 by Quang Nam Museum and international archaeologists, these unique artifacts offer significant cultural and historical insights. The artifacts, dating back to the Sa Huynh culture, have been well-preserved and analyzed using various methods. Quang Nam Museum plans to use digital technologies to further promote and protect these treasures.
New Discoveries at Vuon Chuoi: 3,500-Year-Old Burials and Long Houses
via various sources, 19 October 2024: The Vuon Chuoi archaeological site in Hanoi has yielded surprising new discoveries, including over 100 prehistoric burials dating back 3,500 years, many with unusual customs like tooth extraction and stone bracelets worn above the elbow, never before seen in Vietnam. Excavations revealed the remains of long houses and other artifacts linked to the Phung Nguyen, Dong Dau, Go Mun, and Dong Son cultures. These findings offer new insights into ancient Vietnamese social organization, living spaces, and burial practices. Experts are pushing for the site's preservation, with proposals to classify it as a city-level relic or transform it into a cultural heritage park.
See also: Vietnam Net, Cong Luan, Vietnam Express, Vietnam PlusNinh Binh Festival Showcases Ancient Hoa Lu Culinary Traditions
via VietnamMore, 18 October 2024: The Ninh Binh Tourism Food Festival 2024, themed “Culinary Quintessence of the Ancient Capital,” launched on 18 October in Ninh Binh, Vietnam. The event aims to preserve and promote traditional dishes from the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, focusing on royal court cuisine. With over 100 booths, participants from eight districts and international companies are exhibiting regional dishes. Highlights include a competition, discussions on culinary tourism, and a giant crab soup serving 999 guests, cooked by top chefs. The festival, free for all visitors, runs until 29 October 2024.
See also: Vietnam.vnMy Son Heritage Site Expands Eco-Tourism and Cultural Offerings
via VietnamMore, 15 October 2024: The My Son World Heritage Site in Quang Nam, Vietnam, has seen a significant increase in international visitors, with nearly 352,000 people visiting in the first nine months of 2024. New initiatives, including art programs, traditional Cham Pa performances, and the introduction of a zodiac route, have enriched the visitor experience. Efforts to preserve the site's cultural values have also been bolstered by collaboration with Indian experts on restoration and digitization. Additionally, multilingual audio guides in eight languages enhance accessibility. Plans to expand eco-tourism and cultural offerings are underway, aiming for long-term sustainability by 2030.