The Ancient Town of Si Thep Listed As New UNESCO World Heritage Site

Si Thep Historical Park

Thailand is one of many countries that proudly boast UNESCO World Heritage Sites for travellers to explore their antiquity and distinctive architectural features. And, many Thai people take pride in their ancient historical parks as they represent their rich history and culture. The presence of these ancient sites on Thai soil plays a vital role in elevating the nation’s global recognition and identity.

Recently, Si Thep Historical Park, an ancient site in Phetchabun, has been declared as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This sparked immense interest among Thai history enthusiasts and the local residents.

Si Thep Historical Park has become a new world heritage site

si thep
Image credit: @thanansetsrivichai via Instagram

The ancient town of Si Thep has been declared the seventh UNESCO World Heritage Site in Thailand after Ban Chiang, Thailand’s third heritage site that was listed 31 years ago.

Over its 1,700-year existence, the town showcases ancient ruins and architecture influenced by Dvarati and Kmher culture, which date back to the 8th-18th Buddhist centuries.

si thep
Image credit: @ssamthongklam via Instagram

The ancient city of Sri Thep is historically significant as a maritime trade hub with a diverse archaeological heritage. It spans from prehistoric times through the Dvaravati culture, Khmer civilization, early Ayutthaya period, and subsequent decline. Notable sites include “Khao Klang Nok” and “Khao Klang Nai.” “Khao Thammarat” mountain to the west features cave wall carvings, with “Khao Klang Nok” exhibiting Thailand’s largest Dvaravati-style sculptures at the Asian mainland’s peak.

Congratulations from netizens

Screenshot: Sarakadee Lite via Facebook

Translation: Congrats to Phetchabun residents.

Screenshot: Sarakadee Lite via Facebook

Translation: Proud to be Thai.

Screenshot: Sarakadee Lite via Facebook

Translation: It’d be great if more Thais showed more interest in Thai history. Nowadays, not a lot of Thai study the history of ancient places.

Si Thep, a new World Heritage Site in Thailand

We can’t emphasize enough how grateful we feel for this news. Apparently, it grabbed a lot of attention from Thai people, especially history junkies. Now, for those who have never been to this historical site, don’t hesitate to take the opportunity to pay a visit and explore the history vibes at Si Thep Historical Park in Phetchabun.

For other articles to explore, check out 8 historical parks to visit in Thailand, Abandoned Paper Mill in Kanchanaburi, and Prasat Nakhon Luang which boasts a Thai-Khmer sanctuary in Ayutthaya.

Address: Si Thep, Si Thep District, Phetchabun 67170
Opening hours: 8am-4.30pm, Daily
Entrance fee: ฿30 (~USD0.83) for Thais, ฿100 (~USD2.77) for foreigners
Direction: Google Maps