Staircases, Sculptures, and Soaked Temples
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 18 - 24 November 2024
សួស្តី! This week, I’m turning the spotlight on the painstaking restoration of heritage sites across Southeast Asia, as conservators tackle the intricate challenges of time, weather, and history itself.
In Cambodia, the APSARA National Authority has taken on dual responsibilities at Phnom Krom Temple and the ancient Makara sculpture in Siem Reap. At Phnom Krom, the focus is on stabilizing its iconic staircase and repairing its beautifully weathered carvings. Meanwhile, in a nearby village, the restoration of an 18-meter Makara—an intricate mythical water creature that once directed the flow of Cambodia's sophisticated drainage systems—has been completed. This project required meticulous mapping, stone realignment, and a dash of creative problem-solving to breathe life back into an engineering marvel from centuries past.
In Thailand, the Ayutthaya restoration effort at Wat Chaiwatthanaram comes to a triumphant close after 12 years of work. Here, conservationists battled not only the erosion of time but the devastating aftermath of the 2011 floods. With $1.8 million in funding from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, the project repaired mural paintings, reconstructed Buddha statues, and fortified the site with a floodwall to stave off future disasters. Also this week, the APSARA Authority reported the completed work on Wat Damnak in Siem Reap which highlights a more subtle but equally essential form of restoration. This vihara has had its architectural integrity carefully preserved, ensuring its intricate carvings and structural elegance remain intact for generations to come.
From monumental temples to mythical sculptures, these projects reflect a shared ethos in the region: to safeguard the tangible remnants of the past while adapting them to meet modern conservation challenges. Each stone replaced, and each carving restored is not just an act of preservation but a revival of the stories and ingenuity that define Southeast Asia’s rich cultural legacy.
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And now, on to the news:
Contents
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter and Website is supported in part by many generous readers, colleagues and friends. You can support by buying me a coffee.
Highlights of the Week
In no particular order, here are five of the most popular stories from this week:
Australian Team Studies 9th-Century Batu Itam Shipwreck in Belitung
via BangkaPos, 17 November 2024: An Australian archaeological team from Flinders University, led by Associate Professor Martin Polkinghorne, is studying the Batu Itam Wreck (aka the Belitung Wreck) in Belitung, Indonesia. Believed to be a 9th-century Arab dhow, the ship carried Chinese ceramics, gold, and Indonesian spices, highlighting Indonesia's pivotal role in global trade. The team’s "Reuniting Cargoes" project aims to trace artifacts from the wreck, some of which are currently in Australia, and reconnect them with the Batu Itam community.Indonesia's National Library Preserves Nearly 20,000 Ancient Scripts
via ANTARA News, 19 November 2024: Indonesia's National Library has preserved 19,726 ancient scripts from 12 provinces, demonstrating its dedication to safeguarding the nation's literary heritage. Deputy for Development of Library Materials and Information Services, Mariana Ginting, emphasized that preserving these texts is crucial for maintaining historical, cultural, and literary values. Despite this achievement, the number of preserved scripts remains below the 82,158 identified in Perpusnas' grand design for preservation, highlighting the need for continued efforts and community involvement to protect Indonesia's cultural heritage.Historic Vihara at Wat Damnak Successfully Renovated
via Khmer Times, 20 November 2024: The APSARA National Authority (ANA) has completed the restoration of the ancient vihara at Wat Damnak in Siem Reap. The project focused on preserving the vihara's original architectural features, including intricate carvings and structural elements, to maintain its historical integrity. This initiative is part of ANA's broader efforts to conserve Cambodia's cultural heritage, ensuring that significant religious sites like Wat Damnak continue to be appreciated by future generations.See also: Khmer Times
Chulalongkorn University Unveils VR Experience of Wat Arun
via Chulalongkorn University, 21 November 2024: Chulalongkorn University has launched a virtual reality project offering an immersive experience of Wat Arun, one of Bangkok's iconic temples. This initiative allows users to explore the temple's intricate architecture and art from anywhere in the world, promoting cultural heritage and accessibility. The VR experience aims to provide educational insights and foster a deeper appreciation of Thailand's historical landmarks.Choeung Ek's Hidden Past: From Pottery Hub to Tragic Killing Field
via Khmer Times, 22 November 2024: The Royal Academy of Cambodia urged archaeologists to deepen research and collaborate internationally to uncover gaps in Cambodian history, emphasizing nationalism and global relevance. During a seminar titled "Discoveries Outside Angkor," Secretary-General Yang Peou highlighted the significance of archaeological finds beyond the Angkor complex, particularly in post-Angkor sites, to enhance historical understanding. A presentation by Phon Kaseka detailed discoveries at Choeung Ek Station, once a pre-Angkorian settlement and pottery hub, later infamous as a Khmer Rouge execution site. The site revealed temple mounds, pottery kilns, and evidence of habitation spanning the 5th to 14th centuries, shedding light on Cambodia's ancient past.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Vietnam
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This week, I’ve curated a selection of fascinating reads that offer insights into everything from ancient Cham sculptures to the Neolithic wonders of Man Bac. Whether you’re an avid researcher, a casual history enthusiast, or just someone looking to expand their library, these books provide compelling narratives and scholarly perspectives on Vietnam’s cultural and historical legacy. Some of the links below are affiliate links which mean I may get a commission if you click on them and make a purchase.
Vibrancy in Stone: Masterpieces of the Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture
by Peter D. Sharrock and Vo Van Thang
The Origins of Ancient Vietnam by Nam C. Kim
Viet Nam: A History from Earliest Times to the Present by Ben Kiernan
Royal Hue by Vu Hong Lien
Man Bac: The Excavation of a Neolithic Site in Northern Vietnam by Marc F. Oxenham, Hirofumi Matsumura and Nguyen Kim (eds.)
Note: This book is also available Open Access here
Upcoming Events
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Contact me if you have an event, public lecture or job posting that you want to publicise.
22 September 2024 - 22 February 2025: Endless Stories (Cambridge, UK)
25-30 November 2024: Archaeological Collection Care Workshop (Online and Singapore)
11-29 November 2024: CollAsia 2024 (Chiang Mai, Thailand)
3 December 2024: Prince Damrong’s Journey to Angkor a Century Ago (Bangkok, Thailand)
12 December 2024: The Lintel and the Pilaster: Reuniting Artifacts at Prasat Phanom Rung (Bangkok, 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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This week’s social shoutout is a bit of a personal one. During the pandemic, I had the privilege of co-coordinating a webinar series hosted by the Temasek History Research Centre at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies (ISEAS). The series focused on the art and archaeology of Southeast Asia, bringing together leading scholars to share their expertise with a global audience.
Now, the insights from those webinars have been transformed into a fantastic resource guide, available on the Art and Archaeology of Southeast Asia website. This site serves as both a repository of the lectures and an educator’s handbook, making it a tool for students, teachers, and anyone keen on exploring the region’s rich cultural heritage.
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!
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Choeung Ek's Hidden Past: From Pottery Hub to Tragic Killing Field
via Khmer Times, 22 November 2024: The Royal Academy of Cambodia urged archaeologists to deepen research and collaborate internationally to uncover gaps in Cambodian history, emphasizing nationalism and global relevance. During a seminar titled "Discoveries Outside Angkor," Secretary-General Yang Peou highlighted the significance of archaeological finds beyond the Angkor complex, particularly in post-Angkor sites, to enhance historical understanding. A presentation by Phon Kaseka detailed discoveries at Choeung Ek Station, once a pre-Angkorian settlement and pottery hub, later infamous as a Khmer Rouge execution site. The site revealed temple mounds, pottery kilns, and evidence of habitation spanning the 5th to 14th centuries, shedding light on Cambodia's ancient past.Experts Tackle Structural Damage at Phnom Krom Temple
via Khmer Times, 22 November 2024: The APSARA National Authorityis restoring the northwest front staircase and carvings at Phnom Krom Temple, addressing damage caused by material aging and wear. Led by stone conservationist Long Nary, the project includes stabilizing the staircase foundation, repairing worn carvings on the central and north towers, and replacing damaged stones with new materials. The meticulous process involves cleaning debris, compacting the soil, and sealing connections to protect the temple from water damage. Begun in September 2024, the project aims to preserve the site’s cultural significance and is slated for completion by year-end.APSARA Authority Hosts Museum Sustainability Exchange Program
via Khmer Times, 21 November 2024: The APSARA National Authority recently organized an exchange program centered on museums and sustainability, aiming to enhance the management and conservation of cultural heritage sites. The program brought together experts and practitioners to discuss sustainable practices in museum operations, focusing on environmental conservation, community engagement, and the integration of traditional knowledge. This initiative reflects ANA's commitment to preserving Cambodia's rich cultural heritage through sustainable and inclusive approaches.APSARA Authority and WMF Address Climate Risks at Angkor
via Khmer Times, 21 November 2024: The APSARA National Authority, in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund, organized a workshop on climate change risk assessment at the Angkor Archaeological Park. The event aimed to evaluate the potential impacts of climate change on the site's cultural heritage and develop strategies for mitigation and adaptation. Experts discussed the vulnerability of Angkor's structures to environmental changes and emphasized the importance of integrating climate resilience into conservation efforts.
ANA Restores Ancient Makara Sculpture in Siem Reap
via Phnom Penh Post, 20 November 2024: The APSARA National Authority has completed the restoration of an ancient Makara sculpture, part of a historic drainage system in Teuk Likh village, Siem Reap province. Initiated in mid-May, the project involved meticulous mapping, excavation, and repair of scattered stones to restore the 18-meter-long structure to its original form. The Makara, a mythical Hindu water creature, played a crucial role in ancient Cambodia's water management.Historic Vihara at Wat Damnak Successfully Renovated
via Khmer Times, 20 November 2024: The APSARA National Authority (ANA) has completed the restoration of the ancient vihara at Wat Damnak in Siem Reap. The project focused on preserving the vihara's original architectural features, including intricate carvings and structural elements, to maintain its historical integrity. This initiative is part of ANA's broader efforts to conserve Cambodia's cultural heritage, ensuring that significant religious sites like Wat Damnak continue to be appreciated by future generations.See also: Khmer Times
APSARA National Authority Focuses on Site Manager Capacity Building
via Khmer Times, 18 November 2024: The APSARA National Authority organized a workshop aimed at enhancing the skills and roles of site managers overseeing the Angkor temples. The training focused on effective site management, preservation techniques, and strategies to prevent inappropriate tourist activities. Participants included officers, staff, and workers responsible for the daily operations and conservation of the Angkor archaeological sites.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Indonesia's National Library Preserves Nearly 20,000 Ancient Scripts
via ANTARA News, 19 November 2024: Indonesia's National Library has preserved 19,726 ancient scripts from 12 provinces, demonstrating its dedication to safeguarding the nation's literary heritage. Deputy for Development of Library Materials and Information Services, Mariana Ginting, emphasized that preserving these texts is crucial for maintaining historical, cultural, and literary values. Despite this achievement, the number of preserved scripts remains below the 82,158 identified in Perpusnas' grand design for preservation, highlighting the need for continued efforts and community involvement to protect Indonesia's cultural heritage.Minister Highlights Community Role in Cultural Heritage Preservation
via ANTARA News, 17 November 2024: Minister of Culture Fadli Zon emphasized that active community involvement—from academicians and artists to the younger generation—is vital for preserving Indonesia's cultural heritage. He highlighted that cultural elements like batik motifs, gamelan music, traditional dances, and folklore embody values of unity and respect for diversity. In 2024, the Ministry of Culture designated 272 intangible cultural heritages and 17 cultural properties, bringing the totals to 2,213 and 228, respectively. The minister praised ongoing innovations that promote cultural heritage through digital media, performances, and international collaborations.
Indonesia Seeks UNESCO Status for Reog, Kolintang, and Kebaya
via ANTARA News, 17 November 2024: Indonesia plans to propose the traditional dance Reog Ponorogo, the Kolintang musical instrument, and the kebaya dress for recognition as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in December 2024. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon emphasized that this initiative aims to promote Indonesian culture globally and highlight values such as cooperation, mutual respect, and diversity. He also stressed the importance of community involvement, academic support, artistic expression, and youth engagement in preserving these cultural elements.Australian Team Studies 9th-Century Batu Itam Shipwreck in Belitung
via BangkaPos, 17 November 2024: An Australian archaeological team from Flinders University, led by Associate Professor Martin Polkinghorne, is studying the Batu Itam Wreck (aka the Belitung Wreck) in Belitung, Indonesia. Believed to be a 9th-century Arab dhow, the ship carried Chinese ceramics, gold, and Indonesian spices, highlighting Indonesia's pivotal role in global trade. The team’s "Reuniting Cargoes" project aims to trace artifacts from the wreck, some of which are currently in Australia, and reconnect them with the Batu Itam community.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Penang Heritage Trust Highlights Resident Exodus from George Town
via Malay Mail, 15 November 2024: The Penang Heritage Trust has raised concerns over the impact of gentrification on George Town's heritage, noting a significant decline in local residents—from approximately 50,000 before its 2008 UNESCO World Heritage designation to about 9,000 today. This population decrease has led to the fading of traditional cultural festivals, such as the Hungry Ghost Festival and Chinese New Year celebrations. PHT President Clement Liang advocates for affordable housing initiatives to retain residents and preserve the city's cultural identity, citing the Armenian Street pilot project as a successful model. Liang also emphasizes the importance of improving walkability and maintaining communal spaces to balance tourism with local livability.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Exploring the Caves of Peñablanca: A 30-Year Journey
via The Manila Times, 19 November 2024: In 1994, inspired by Richard "Chang" Guzman's photographs in Philippine Airlines' Mabuhay Magazine, the author and friends embarked on a 14-hour journey to Tuguegarao to explore Peñablanca's caves. Guzman, renowned as the "Father of Cave Photography in the Philippines," had extensively documented the caves in Region 2.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Chulalongkorn University Unveils VR Experience of Wat Arun
via Chulalongkorn University, 21 November 2024: Chulalongkorn University has launched a virtual reality project offering an immersive experience of Wat Arun, one of Bangkok's iconic temples. This initiative allows users to explore the temple's intricate architecture and art from anywhere in the world, promoting cultural heritage and accessibility. The VR experience aims to provide educational insights and foster a deeper appreciation of Thailand's historical landmarks.Thailand Advances Toward Ratifying UN Cultural Property Convention
via Thai PBS World, 20 November 2024: Thailand has completed drafting legislation aimed at preventing illicit activities involving cultural property, a crucial step toward ratifying the 1970 UN Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and Preventing the Illicit Import, Export, and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property.U.S.-Thai Collaboration Restores Iconic Ayutthaya Temple
via Khaosod English, 16 November 2024: The 12-year restoration of Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a 17th-century temple in Ayutthaya, concluded on 15 November 2024, coinciding with Loy Krathong. Funded by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) with $1.8 million, it is Thailand’s largest AFCP project. The collaboration between the U.S. Embassy, Thailand's Fine Arts Department, and the World Monuments Fund included floodwall repairs, mural restoration, and pavilion refurbishment. U.S. Ambassador Robert F. Godec emphasized the project as a symbol of U.S.-Thai friendship and cultural respect. The project also engaged communities through education, raising awareness about conservation and tourism in the area.
See also: US Embassy in Thailand
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Preserving Vietnam’s 4,000-Year History Amid Globalisation
via Vietnam Plus, 22 November 2024: Vietnam's extensive cultural heritage, spanning over 4,000 years, is positioned as a key driver of sustainable development amid globalisation. With over 40,000 historical sites, including eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, the country integrates heritage preservation with economic growth, transforming landmarks like the Hue Monuments Complex and Hoi An Ancient Town into global tourism hubs. The Vietnamese government has invested heavily in restoration and innovation, fostering community engagement and digitalising cultural assets for future generations. Initiatives such as the digitisation program (2021–2030) ensure Vietnam’s cultural treasures continue to thrive in a modern context.Imperial Hue: Vietnam’s Heritage Capital Revived and Digitized
via Vietnam Plus, 22 November 2024: Thua Thien-Hue province is Southeast Asia’s only locality with six UNESCO World Heritage recognitions, including the Imperial City of Hue and Hue Court Music. These designations underpin the province’s strategy to preserve its rich heritage while driving socio-economic growth through cultural tourism. Restoration efforts, supported by UNESCO since 1993, have revitalized over 200 historical sites and spurred local and international engagement. The digitization of 11,000 artifacts, including 3D exhibitions, highlights Hue’s commitment to blending heritage conservation with innovation. With events like the year-round Hue Festival and goals to become a UNESCO Creative City, Hue is solidifying its position as a premier cultural tourism destination.Hòa Bình Encouraged to Transform Heritage into Tourist Attractions
via Dan Viet, 17 November 2024: Deputy Prime Minister Lê Thành Long emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting Hòa Bình's cultural heritage during a ceremony on 16 November 2024. The event marked the recognition of Hang Xóm Trại and Mái Đá Làng Vành as National Special Monuments. Lê Thành Long highlighted the province's rich history and diverse ethnic cultures, urging local authorities to leverage these assets to boost tourism. He also recommended developing unique tourism products and enhancing infrastructure to attract both domestic and international visitors.Vietnam Prioritizes Preservation of 'Hoa Binh Culture' Heritage
via VTC News, 16 November 2024: Vietnam has intensified efforts to preserve the 'Hoa Binh Culture,' a prehistoric civilization dating back over 10,000 years. The government has recognized key archaeological sites, such as Hang Xom Trai and Mai Da Lang Vanh in Hoa Binh province, as National Special Monuments. These sites offer valuable insights into early human settlements and tool-making techniques. Authorities are implementing measures to protect these sites from environmental threats and unauthorized excavations, ensuring the longevity of this cultural heritage.
Quang Binh Enhances Preservation of Chut Cultural Heritage
via Vietnam.vn, 13 November 2024: Quang Binh province is actively preserving and promoting the traditional cultural values of the Chut ethnic group, integrating these efforts with tourism development. A recent scientific workshop, organized by the Department of Culture and Sports in collaboration with the Vietnam National Institute of Culture and Arts, assessed the current state of Chut cultural heritage and discussed strategies for its preservation. The Chut community, comprising approximately 1,860 households, has a rich cultural heritage that includes unique folk songs, dances, and traditional crafts. However, modernization poses challenges, leading to the erosion of some cultural elements. The workshop emphasized the need for policies and resources to support the preservation of Chut culture, aiming to enhance community awareness and promote sustainable tourism that respects and showcases their heritage.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
Macau's New Museum Highlights Chinese Heritage and Global Exchange
via Bangkok Post, 21 November 2024: The Poly MGM Museum has officially opened at MGM Macau, marking a significant addition to the city's cultural scene. This collaboration between Poly Culture and MGM aims to preserve Chinese heritage while fostering global cultural exchange. The museum's exhibits focus on the history of the Maritime Silk Road, utilizing advanced technology to create immersive experiences. The opening ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Macau's Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng, highlighting the museum's importance in promoting Macau's rich cultural heritage and its role as a hub for international exchange.