S8-3

Three Ways of Thought in Practical Protection of Prehistoric and Historic Heritage Sites at “Phu Phrabat”, Thailand

Fine Arts Department, Thailand

Phu Phrabat Historical Park is an agency under the Fine Arts Department, and a part of the Ministry of Culture responsible for managing cultural resources in Thailand. This study began with the collection of qualitative and quantitative data from various organizations in the mountainous regions of Phu Phan Mountain Range, Udon Thani Province in order to construct records of archaeological heritage and enhance local knowledge. Phu Phrabat is well-known for its mushroom-shaped rock formations, and ancient coloured rock art figures and abstract paintings dating to 3000 – 2500 years ago. The historical park also possesses religious Buddhist parapet, monuments and images dating from 1,400 years ago onwards. In addition, a considerable amount of intangible cultural heritage in the form of historical and contemporary oral and traditional activities has been documented in the park through field data collection. Many of the recorded activities are tied to cultural objects, and the interactions are related to Phu Phrabat being a sacred place. Archaeological research provides time depth, and suggests activities occurred in the park in the past that are different to those recorded in traditional beliefs. This presentation discusses how Phu Phrabat as a cultural heritage agency is managing both the archaeological and historical/contemporary heritage in the context of change through both internal and external factors.