From Bakan to Bagan: Restoring Southeast Asia
The Southeast Asian Archaeology Newsletter for 25 November - 1 December 2024
Sabaidee and sawatdee! This week, we’re celebrating two important occasions: Lao National Day on December 2nd and Thai National Day (more commonly known and Father’s Day in the kingdom) on December 5th. And what better way to mark these holidays than by marveling at the extraordinary restoration efforts across Southeast Asia, where history meets resilience—and a bit of ingenuity.
In Cambodia, Angkor Wat has leveled up its accessibility game with newly restored stairs to the Bakan Tower, making it easier for visitors to ascend to celestial heights without compromising the temple's centuries-old integrity. The stairs themselves aren’t new - they have been around for some time but I’m sure with the thousands of tourists visitng every day they have a higher level of wear and tear. I remember a time when one had to climb up the stairs with nothing but a rope and a prayer. It’s a win-win for both preservation and your legs!
Over in Vietnam, the Nine Dynastic Urns in Hue have been honored with UNESCO recognition as a World Documentary Heritage. These bronze masterpieces, cast in the 1830s, are not just urns—they're encyclopedias of Vietnam’s cultural and natural wonders, etched in exquisite detail. Meanwhile, Thailand is giving Ayutthaya a literal glow-up. As part of the "Sundown 2024" initiative, key ruins are bathed in light from 6 PM to 9 PM, turning the former Siamese capital into a radiant nocturnal wonderland.
And in Myanmar, the ancient cities of Ketumati and Hanthawady are stepping into the spotlight. Efforts are underway to restore these 16th-century sites and transform them into cultural tourism hubs, ensuring their stories are shared with a wider audience. These projects remind us that preserving history is not just about bricks and stones; it’s about safeguarding the spirit of a place and the stories it tells. It’s heartening to see such dedication across the region.
All these and stories and more down below! If you’d like to support my efforts in uncovering and sharing these stories, consider buying me a coffee—it keeps the newsletter brewing!
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:
ASI Deciphers Ancient Sanskrit Inscriptions in Vietnam and Nepal
via Times of India, 25 November 2024: The Archaeological Survey of India has successfully decoded two significant Sanskrit inscriptions, one from Vietnam and the other from Nepal, shedding light on India's cultural influence in Southeast Asia and the Himalayan region during the 3rd and 6th centuries CE. The first inscription, dating to the 3rd century CE, was found on a ring in southern Vietnam and bears the name "Jeshthamitra" in Brahmi script, indicating early Indian cultural presence. The second, from the 6th century CE, is inscribed on the base of a Shivling in Nepal's Sindhupalchok district, mentioning Bhimagupta and his son Devagupta, likely of the Lichhavi dynasty, highlighting the spread of Indian religious practices.
Binh Dinh Showcases 13 Rare Champa National Treasures
via Dan Tri Newspaper, 24 November 2024: Binh Dinh province is preserving 13 national treasures from the Champa culture, each nearly 1,000 years old. These unique stone sculptures offer invaluable insights into the region's historical and cultural heritage. Eight of these artifacts are displayed at the Binh Dinh Provincial Museum, while the remaining five are housed in local communities. Highlights include a relief of the goddess Mahishasuramardini, recognized as a national treasure in 2015, and a Brahma relief, acknowledged in 2016. These pieces are not only significant for archaeological research but also for understanding Vietnam's artistic and religious history.Can Tho Museum Showcases Pristine Oc Eo Artifacts
via VietnamNet, 29 November 2024: The Can Tho Museum is currently exhibiting four national treasures from the ancient Oc Eo culture (1st–7th centuries), unearthed at the Nhon Thanh archaeological site in Phong Dien District. Among these artifacts is a remarkably well-preserved 5th-century ceramic vase, noted for its fine clay composition and unique design, representing the pinnacle of Oc Eo ceramic craftsmanship. Other significant items include a 4th–6th century wooden Buddha statue and a rare Linga-Yoni sculpture, the first of its kind found in Southeast Asia, reflecting the rich cultural and religious heritage of the ancient Funan civilization.Pigs at the Heart of Filipino Culture: A Historical Perspective
via UP Diliman, 22 November 2024: A study by researchers from the UP Diliman School of Archaeology explores the deep cultural and historical significance of pigs in the Philippines. Titled This Little Piggy: Pig-Human Entanglement in the Philippines, the research examines evidence from archaeology, genetics, and ethnography, revealing how pigs have been central to Filipino life, rituals, and cuisine for millennia. Philippine pigs are categorized as wild, native, or exotic, each with distinct roles and histories. The research highlights pigs' integral role in Filipino social practices, marking life events from birth to death. It calls for further studies and preservation efforts to maintain the heritage associated with native pig breeds.Indonesia’s National Library Partners with SOAS to Digitize Manuscripts
via ANTARA, 25 November 2024: Indonesia’s National Library and SOAS University of London have signed an agreement to create a unified database for Nusantara manuscripts. This collaboration prioritizes digitizing and cataloging manuscripts, with 82 Nusantara manuscripts at SOAS yet to be digitized. The initiative aims to preserve these cultural treasures, promote philological research, and expand access through joint publications. The agreement includes capacity building, cataloging, and information management to sustain the manuscripts.
Featured Books and Recommendations - Myanmar
[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.
History of Burma by Sir Arthur Phayre
Ancient Pagan by Donald Stadtner
Buddhist Art of Myanmar by Sylvia Fraser-Lu and Donald M. Stadtner (eds.)
Captain Linnaeus Tripe: Photographer of India and Burma, 1852-1860 by Roger Taylor and Crispin Branfoot
Burma: Art and Archaeology by Alexandra Green
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] Bagan: From Buddhist Superpower to a Place of Longing for Myanmar’s Ruling Elite
This chapter by Clara Rellensmann examines Bagan as both a historic sanctuary and a symbol of power in Myanmar, highlighting how rituals and religious architecture shape elite power dynamics. Bagan's geography, history, and infrastructure are discussed, but the focus is on its religious architecture and its connections to belief systems and cultural practices. These elements serve as key references for further exploration of Bagan’s significance within the book, Appropriating Sacred Spaces.[Paper] Peran Adipati-Adipati Mangkunegaran Dalam Pelestarian Kepurbakalaan Jawa Kuno (1853-1944)
via PurbaWidya, 18 November 2024: This paper investigates the heritage preservation efforts of the Mangkunegaran dukes (IV–VII) in relation to Old Javanese culture. Drawing on historical sources like letters, newspapers, and artifacts, the research reveals varied approaches by the dukes, from Mangkunegara IV’s artifact collection to Mangkunegara VII’s archaeological activities inspired by his vision of Javanese societal reconstruction. The study highlights how the colonial-era kingdom contributed to safeguarding Java’s historical and cultural legacy.
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)
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)
Cambodia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Cambodia]
Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum Enhances Sandstone Artifact Conservation
via Khmer Times, 28 November 2024: The Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum in Siem Reap has initiated a comprehensive conservation program for its sandstone artifacts, aiming to preserve Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. This effort includes the restoration of significant pieces, such as a sandstone Buddha Foot statue and six ancient wooden Buddha statues, which were previously housed in Angkor Wat's Preah Poan Gallery. These artifacts have been meticulously restored by experts and are now on public display, offering visitors insight into the nation's artistic legacy.Angkor Wat's Bakan Tower Reopens with New Visitor-Friendly Stairs
via Khmer Times, 28 November 2024: The Apsara National Authority has unveiled newly restored stairs leading to Angkor Wat's Bakan Tower, enhancing visitor access to this iconic structure. The restoration focused on reinforcing the foundation and repairing the Naga balustrade, which had deteriorated over time. This initiative is part of broader efforts to preserve Angkor Wat's architectural integrity while accommodating increasing tourist numbers.Cambodian PM Orders Review of Angkor Park Land Use Policies
via Khmer Times, 28 November 2024: Prime Minister Hun Manet has directed a comprehensive review of land use conditions within the Angkor Archaeological Park to ensure sustainable development and preservation of the UNESCO World Heritage site. This initiative aims to address challenges such as illegal settlements and constructions that threaten the park's integrity. The government plans to collaborate with relevant ministries and stakeholders to develop strategies that balance conservation efforts with the needs of local communities.Restoration of Phnom Bakheng G15 Tower Enters Final Phase
via Khmer Times, 23 November 2024: The APSARA National Authority is set to complete the restoration of the G15 brick tower at Phnom Bakheng Temple by December 2024. Initiated in May 2024 by the Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology, the project has achieved 95% progress, with repairs on the inner walls and gates and ongoing work on the northern and southern walls. The G15 tower, made of sandstone and brick, was deteriorating due to aging, poor maintenance, vegetation growth, and water damage. ANA's restoration aims to stabilize and preserve this vulnerable structure for future generations.
Indonesia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Indonesia]
Borobudur Temple Introduces 6-Hour Meditation Classes for Tourists
via Tempo, 27 November 2024: Borobudur Temple has launched a special program offering tourists a six-hour meditation class. This initiative aims to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Buddhist practices and enhance their spiritual experience at the UNESCO World Heritage site. The program includes guided meditation sessions led by experienced instructors, allowing participants to learn and practice mindfulness techniques within the temple's serene environment. This offering reflects the current direction of using Borobudur to promote cultural and spiritual tourism.Indonesia’s National Library Partners with SOAS to Digitize Manuscripts
via ANTARA, 25 November 2024: Indonesia’s National Library and SOAS University of London have signed an agreement to create a unified database for Nusantara manuscripts. This collaboration prioritizes digitizing and cataloging manuscripts, with 82 Nusantara manuscripts at SOAS yet to be digitized. The initiative aims to preserve these cultural treasures, promote philological research, and expand access through joint publications. The agreement includes capacity building, cataloging, and information management to sustain the manuscripts.[Paper] Peran Adipati-Adipati Mangkunegaran Dalam Pelestarian Kepurbakalaan Jawa Kuno (1853-1944)
via PurbaWidya, 18 November 2024: This paper investigates the heritage preservation efforts of the Mangkunegaran dukes (IV–VII) in relation to Old Javanese culture. Drawing on historical sources like letters, newspapers, and artifacts, the research reveals varied approaches by the dukes, from Mangkunegara IV’s artifact collection to Mangkunegara VII’s archaeological activities inspired by his vision of Javanese societal reconstruction. The study highlights how the colonial-era kingdom contributed to safeguarding Java’s historical and cultural legacy.
Malaysia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Malaysia]
Museum's Report on WWII Aircraft Relics to Guide Sarawak's Next Steps
via DayakDaily, 19 November 2024: Sarawak's Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts is awaiting a detailed report from the Sarawak Museum Department regarding two World War II aircraft relics discovered near the Sabah-Sarawak border in Lawas. The relics include a Japanese Zero fighter plane and an American fighter plane, with one reportedly in relatively intact condition. Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah emphasized the need for thorough research to determine the aircrafts' histories before deciding on preservation strategies, which may involve collaborations with the United States and Japan.
Myanmar
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Myanmar]
Bagan Archaeological Museum Welcomes 33,780 Visitors from April to November
via Global New Light of Myanmar, 28 November 2024: The Bagan Archaeological Museum in Myanmar's Mandalay Region reported 33,780 visitors between April and November 2024, generating over K25 million in revenue. This marks a significant increase compared to the same period in previous years, reflecting a resurgence in tourism to the Bagan Archaeological Zone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient temples and cultural heritage. The museum's deputy director, Daw Khet Khet Hla, noted that both domestic and international tourists contributed to this growth, with the majority being local visitors.Ketumati and Hanthawady Cities to Become Myanmar Tourist Sites
via Global New Light of Myanmar, 25 November 2024: Efforts are underway to preserve and promote the ancient cities of Ketumati and Hanthawady in Myanmar’s Bago Region as cultural tourism destinations. Research and excavation are focused on city walls, towers, and gates, with conservation projects planned to restore the landscapes to their historical state. Inspired by similar efforts in Ayutthaya, Thailand, these initiatives aim to attract domestic and international tourists. Ketumati, founded by King Mingyi Nyo in 1510, and Hanthawady, built by King Bayinnaung over 450 years ago, are key to Myanmar's heritage tourism strategy.Bagan’s Tourism Booms in 2024
via Global New Light of Myanmar, 23 November 2024: Bagan’s Ancient Cultural Zone hosted over 400,000 visitors by mid-November 2024, including 12,793 international tourists. Major events like the Thadingyut and Tazaungdine festivals contributed significantly to these numbers. Key attractions such as Shwezigon Pagoda and Bu Pagoda saw millions of visitors this year, marking an increase from 2023. Local authorities implemented measures like litter management and vendor-free zones to enhance visitor experiences. Officials expect more tourists during upcoming Nadaw and Pyatho festivals, signaling continued growth for Bagan’s tourism sector.[Paper] Bagan: From Buddhist Superpower to a Place of Longing for Myanmar’s Ruling Elite
This chapter by Clara Rellensmann examines Bagan as both a historic sanctuary and a symbol of power in Myanmar, highlighting how rituals and religious architecture shape elite power dynamics. Bagan's geography, history, and infrastructure are discussed, but the focus is on its religious architecture and its connections to belief systems and cultural practices. These elements serve as key references for further exploration of Bagan’s significance within the book, Appropriating Sacred Spaces.
Philippines
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of the Philippines]
Pigs at the Heart of Filipino Culture: A Historical Perspective
via UP Diliman, 22 November 2024: A study by researchers from the UP Diliman School of Archaeology explores the deep cultural and historical significance of pigs in the Philippines. Titled This Little Piggy: Pig-Human Entanglement in the Philippines, the research examines evidence from archaeology, genetics, and ethnography, revealing how pigs have been central to Filipino life, rituals, and cuisine for millennia. Philippine pigs are categorized as wild, native, or exotic, each with distinct roles and histories. The research highlights pigs' integral role in Filipino social practices, marking life events from birth to death. It calls for further studies and preservation efforts to maintain the heritage associated with native pig breeds.
Singapore
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Singapore]
Unexploded WWII Bomb Safely Removed from Keppel Club
via CNA, 21 November 2024: An unexploded World War II bomb was discovered on the edge of Keppel Club’s car park near Sime Road by a staff member cutting grass on 21 November 2024. The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit safely removed the mortar bomb after determining it posed no immediate danger. The site was cordoned off, but operations at Keppel Club and the nearby Singapore Island Country Club were unaffected. This follows previous discoveries of WWII bombs in Singapore, reflecting the lingering remnants of wartime bombing inaccuracies.Under Land and Sea: Archaeology and Conservation in Singapore
On 30 November 2024, the Heritage Conservation Centre is hosting "Under Land and Sea: Archaeology and Conservation in Singapore" at the Asian Civilisations Museum. This event features experts like Professor John Miksic and Dr. Goh Geok Yian, who will discuss Singapore's archaeological heritage, recent findings, and conservation challenges. The session concludes with a Q&A panel moderated by Michael Ng, Assistant Curator (Maritime Archaeology) at the museum. Attendees can choose between in-person attendance or a livestream option. Note: This event would have ended by the time this newsletter is out.
Thailand
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Thailand]
Ayutthaya's Historic Sites Shine Bright in 'Sundown 2024'
via Bangkok Post, 28 November 2024: Ayutthaya Sundown 2024 offers visitors the chance to explore five illuminated historical sites from 6 pm to 9 pm until February 16. Notable among these is Wat Phra Ram, where a large swamp has been transformed into a sea of lotuses, reflecting the ancient ruins and evoking the early days of the Ayutthaya kingdom. Constructed in 1369 by King Ramesuan, Wat Phra Ram stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage. This event provides a unique perspective on Ayutthaya's architectural splendor under the night sky.CollAsia 2024: Advancing Sustainable Conservation in Southeast Asian Museums
via ICCROM, 22 November 2024: The CollAsia 2024 course, "Connecting Collections with Museum Spaces and Contexts," aims to integrate traditional knowledge with scientific conservation principles to promote sustainable practices in museum management. By understanding the dynamics of alteration and deterioration, and recognizing the relationships between individual objects and their broader contexts, heritage professionals can make informed conservation decisions. This approach ensures that conservation practices are grounded in a wider social and environmental setting, considering the diverse factors influencing heritage collections in our ever-changing world.
Vietnam
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of Vietnam]
Can Tho Museum Showcases Pristine Oc Eo Artifacts
via VietnamNet, 29 November 2024: The Can Tho Museum is currently exhibiting four national treasures from the ancient Oc Eo culture (1st–7th centuries), unearthed at the Nhon Thanh archaeological site in Phong Dien District. Among these artifacts is a remarkably well-preserved 5th-century ceramic vase, noted for its fine clay composition and unique design, representing the pinnacle of Oc Eo ceramic craftsmanship. Other significant items include a 4th–6th century wooden Buddha statue and a rare Linga-Yoni sculpture, the first of its kind found in Southeast Asia, reflecting the rich cultural and religious heritage of the ancient Funan civilization.ASI Deciphers Ancient Sanskrit Inscriptions in Vietnam and Nepal
via Times of India, 25 November 2024: The Archaeological Survey of India has successfully decoded two significant Sanskrit inscriptions, one from Vietnam and the other from Nepal, shedding light on India's cultural influence in Southeast Asia and the Himalayan region during the 3rd and 6th centuries CE. The first inscription, dating to the 3rd century CE, was found on a ring in southern Vietnam and bears the name "Jeshthamitra" in Brahmi script, indicating early Indian cultural presence. The second, from the 6th century CE, is inscribed on the base of a Shivling in Nepal's Sindhupalchok district, mentioning Bhimagupta and his son Devagupta, likely of the Lichhavi dynasty, highlighting the spread of Indian religious practices.
Binh Dinh Showcases 13 Rare Champa National Treasures
via Dan Tri Newspaper, 24 November 2024: Binh Dinh province is preserving 13 national treasures from the Champa culture, each nearly 1,000 years old. These unique stone sculptures offer invaluable insights into the region's historical and cultural heritage. Eight of these artifacts are displayed at the Binh Dinh Provincial Museum, while the remaining five are housed in local communities. Highlights include a relief of the goddess Mahishasuramardini, recognized as a national treasure in 2015, and a Brahma relief, acknowledged in 2016. These pieces are not only significant for archaeological research but also for understanding Vietnam's artistic and religious history.Quang Tri Develops Nguyen Lord Palace as Cultural Heritage Landmark
via CLO, 24 November 2024: Quang Tri province has approved a plan to preserve, restore, and develop the Nguyen Lord Palace relic site (1558-1626) in Trieu Phong district. Spanning 10 related relics, the project will restore historical elements, conduct archaeological excavations, and create a memorial space for Nguyen Lords. Plans include constructing temples, enhancing infrastructure, and developing a space for cultural activities and festivals to diversify Quang Tri's tourism offerings. The project runs from 2025 to 2035, with a vision extending to 2050, aiming to integrate historical preservation with modern tourism.Thua Thien Hue Celebrates UNESCO Recognition and Thai Hoa Palace Restoration
via Fatherland Newspaper, 23 November 2024: Thua Thien Hue province celebrated the UNESCO recognition of the "Reliefs on Nine Bronze Urns in the Hue Royal Palace" as a World Documentary Heritage. The Nine Dynastic Urns, cast between 1835 and 1837 under King Minh Mang, symbolize Vietnam's rich cultural history. Concurrently, the province announced the completion of the Thai Hoa Palace restoration project, which concluded nine months ahead of schedule. This palace, a significant symbol of the Nguyen Dynasty's authority, has been restored to preserve its historical integrity.Vietnam Showcases Marine Culture for Cultural Heritage Day
via VOVWORLD, 23 November 2024: Hai Phong and Quang Ninh Museums have jointly organized an exhibition featuring 200 images, artifacts, and documents celebrating marine heritage. The display, part of the 79th anniversary of Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day, is divided into three themes: "Sediments of Time," showcasing archaeological finds from Cai Beo and Ha Long; "Colors of Marine Cultural Heritage," which highlights traditional festivals and performances; and "Heritage Connection," emphasizing the collaborative role of Hai Phong and Quang Ninh in cultural and environmental preservation. The exhibition highlights the significance of Ha Long Bay-Cat Ba Archipelago as a world heritage site and its potential for sustainable development.How Vietnam’s Youth Are Transforming Heritage with Technology
via VOVWORLD, 23 November 2024: On Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day, the role of young people in preserving cultural heritage through technology is highlighted. Digitization initiatives, such as 3D interactive exhibits at the Vietnam National History Museum, allow immersive exploration of artifacts. Groups like Y Van Hien are reviving traditional crafts, using modern techniques to reproduce historical costumes. Experts commend these efforts for making cultural heritage more relevant and accessible. Technology not only aids preservation but also offers fresh ways to connect younger generations with Vietnam’s cultural legacy.Apply Now: Up to $500,000 Available for Vietnam's Cultural Preservation Projects
via U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Vietnam, 22 November 2024: The U.S. Embassy in Vietnam has announced the 2025 U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) Competition, inviting Vietnamese non-commercial entities to submit proposals aimed at preserving cultural heritage. Eligible applicants include non-governmental organizations, museums, educational institutions, and similar entities. Proposals should request funding between $25,000 and $500,000 and must be submitted in English by 05 January 2025. The competition employs a two-round selection process: initial concept notes focusing on public diplomacy objectives, followed by detailed technical proposals for shortlisted candidates. Supported activities encompass conservation, documentation, preventive conservation, restoration, and stabilization of cultural heritage sites and objects. Priority is given to projects that align with U.S. treaty obligations, support U.S. policies in Vietnam, aid disaster risk reduction, or complement other U.S. government programs.Historic Burial Site Unearthed in Hanoi’s Dong Da District
via VnExpress, 22 November 2024: Approximately 150 human remains have been unearthed during drainage construction in Hanoi's Dong Da District, under Alley 167 on Tay Son Street. The remains, discovered about a meter below ground, have not been identified. Authorities plan to relocate the remains to cemeteries if no claims are made. A similar discovery occurred in 2015, when 200 remains were found during construction in the same area. Historically, Tay Son Street was part of a large cemetery, and the graves were relocated during urban development projects, including the building of the Trade Union University.Hoa Cương Museum: A Treasure Trove of Vietnamese Heritage
via VNS, 22 November 2024: The Hoa Cương Museum in Lộc Hà District, Hà Tĩnh, has been certified by the Vietnam Record Organisation for its diverse collection of artefacts representing Vietnamese history and culture. Founded by retired lecturer Dr. Nguyễn Quang Cương in 2017, the museum showcases 4,000 artefacts, 3,700 documents, and rare images across 13 themes, including prehistoric tools, coins, and items from resistance wars. Opened in 2020, it highlights life from the Nguyễn dynasty to the present. Dr. Cương, who began collecting in the 1970s, aims to educate future generations on Vietnam’s heritage and patriotism. Admission to the museum is free.
Peripheral Southeast Asia
[Back to Contents] [Archaeology of ‘Peripheral’ Southeast Asia]
HKU’s 3D Tech Revolutionizes Archaeological Fieldwork
via OpenGovAsia, 25 November 2024: The University of Hong Kong is using Mixed Reality and Augmented Reality technologies, such as HoloLens 2 and AR smart glasses, to revolutionize archaeological fieldwork. These tools enable real-time interaction with digital reconstructions, allowing archaeologists to visualize site layers, structures, and artefacts during excavation. Tested in Armenia, these technologies improved efficiency and accuracy in documentation while preserving digital records of sites for future analysis. The interdisciplinary collaboration at HKU underscores the transformative potential of Arts-Tech partnerships in archaeology and cultural heritage preservation.Ancient Trade Routes Highlight Madurai’s Global Trade Links
via The Hindu, 23 November 2024: Archaeologist and epigraphist R. Poongundran discussed Madurai’s ancient trade routes and global market connections at a seminar hosted by INTACH in Madurai. He revealed that Madurai's historical trade routes, including highways ("peruvazhi") and forest paths ("kaatuvazhi"), facilitated commerce with North India and nations like Iran. References in Sangam literature and inscriptions, such as a 4th-century CE find in Vietnam, confirm Tamil Nadu's extensive trade networks. Features like tolls and insurance models demonstrate the sophistication of ancient trade practices.