ACCU Training Reports 2018

ACCU Training Reports 2018

Practical training on conservation science: cleaning metal objects

Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia Paci�ic Region- Conservation Science for Museum Objects- Investigation, Preservation and Management of Archaeological Sites- Documentation of Cultural Properties- Community-centred Approaches to the Preservation of Historic Towns and Villages

ACCU Training Reports 2018

&XOWXUDO+HULWDJH3URWHFWLRQLQWKH$VLD3DFL¿F5HJLRQ- Conservation Science for Museum Objects- Investigation, Preservation and Management of Archaeological Sites- Documentation of Cultural Properties- Community-centred Approaches to the Preservation of Historic Towns and Villages

Edited and Published by
Cultural Heritage Protectio Cooperation Office,Asia-Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU)
757 Horen-cho, Nara 630-8113 Japan
Tel: +81(0) 742-20-5001
Fax: +81(0) 742-20-5701
e-mail: nara@accu.or.jp
URL: http://www.nara.accu.or.jp
Printed by Meishin-syaⒸ Cultural Heritage Protection Cooperation Office,Asia - Pacific Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU) 2019

Preface

The Cultural Heritage Protection Cooperation Of¿ce, Asia-Paci¿c Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU Nara)
has been conducting training programmes on cultural heritage protection since 2000. A total of 365 heritage
practitioners from 37 countries of Asia-Paci¿c region haYe joined in the training courses held in Nara, Japan and
193 experts haYe participated in the regional worNshop organised in each country so far. ,n 2018, we receiYed
5 participants to the Thematic Training Course, 16 to the *roup Training Course, 15 to the Regional :orNshop
and 9 to the ,nternational :orNshop.
The Thematic Training Course and the *roup Training Course are the programmes to inYite mid-career andyoung professionals to Nara, and the themes of 2018 are ³ConserYation Science for Museum Objects´ and³,nYestigation, PreserYation and Management of Archaeological Sites.´ ,n the ¿rst sessions of the course, theparticipants maNe presentations on the current situation and problems on cultural heritage in respectiYe countries
and haYe discussions among participants and Japanese resource persons. The country reports are the summaryof their presentations. The participants are expected to compare the conserYation methodologies and cases
conducted in Japan and those in their countries through the programme and assigned to write a ¿nal report about
learning experiences and ideas to utilise their new Nnowledge.
The Regional :orNshop was held in SuYa, coorganised with the Fiji Museum. Under the theme of³'ocumentation of Cultural Properties,´ the 15 participants from the museum and the releYant institutions
had lectures and practical trainings on classi¿cation, measured drawing, inN rubbing, photography and maNing
artefacts cards. The training reports, written by the participants who learnt these documentation methods for the¿rst time, are contained in this Yolume.
The ,nternational :orNshop, the newly launched programme in 2018, was held for the senior professionals whoare play actiYe roles in the preserYation practices of historic townscape in the Asia-Paci¿c countries. Throughthe one-weeN programme on ³Community-centred Approaches to the PreserYation of Historic Towns and9illages,´ the participants obserYed the cases of Japan and exchanged opinions with the Japanese experts as well
as local people in Nara and the excursion sites. On the ¿rst two days, they had the symposiums and presented
the case studies on the preserYation of respectiYe historical towns and Yillages. The reports in this Yolume arebased on their presentations.
Finally, , would liNe to express my gratitude to the Agency ¿r Cultural Affairs (%unNacho), National ,nstitute forCultural Heritage, and all those who supported our training programmes. , sincerely wish that the participantsof 2018 will utilise their experiences in the future worN and that this Yolime will help readers Nnow current
situations of cultural heritage protection in the Asia-Paci¿c countries, some of which rarely Yisited.

N,SH,MURA <asushi
Director
Cultural Heritage Protection Cooperation Of¿ce,
Asia-Paci¿c Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU)

Contents
Preface
I.

Thematic Training Course
1. Country Reports………………………………………………………… 3
2. Final Reports ………………………………………………………… 14

II.

Group Training Course
1. Country Reports……………………………………………………… 27
2. Final Reports ………………………………………………………… 81

III.

5egional :orNshop
Training Reports ……………………………………………………… 117

IV.

International :orNshop
Case Study Reports…………………………………………………… 131

Thematic Training Course

I. Thematic Training Course
1. Country Reports
2. Final Reports

Practical training on conservation science

Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

BangladeshCountry Report

Md. Liaquat Ali, Archaeological Chemist
Department of Archaeology, Department Archaeology, Ministry of Cultural Affairs
Mohammad Abul Hossain, Junior Archaeological Chemist
Department of Archaeology, Department Archaeology, Ministry of Cultural Affairs

Bangladesh is a country with an area of about 147,570 sq. km
mainly consisting of Àood plains inundated by a large number ofgreat and small rivers and channels. It is bounded by India,
Burma and the Bay of Bengal. The country lies between 21° 30'
and 27° 39' north latitude, and 88° 3' and 92° 52' east longitude.
The climate of Bangladesh is characteri]ed by tropical variationsof temperature, heavy rainfall, often excessive humidity andseasonal changes. Although Bangladesh is a nascent state, it has
a rich cultural heritage. The Department of Archaeology of the
Ministry of Cultural Affairs has taken steps to nominate anddeclare monuments, sites, artefacts and collections as cultural
heritage, and 480 monuments / sites and a huge number of
antiquities have been protected on a priority basis including two
World Heritage Sites²Ruins of the Buddhist 9ihara at Paharpurand Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat²under the provisions of
the Antiquities Act 1968. The archaeological laboratory of
Bangladesh needs to address the chemical conservation of
antiquities which are preserved and displayed at 23 archaeologicalsite museums in the country. Chemical conservation of heritage
monuments is also done by the archaeological laboratory. The
peculiar climatic factors of Bangladesh such as heavy rainfall,high humidity, salinity, air pollutants in the atmosphere andother natural calamities affect the cultural properties andgradually lead the way to destruction.

As some of these objects remain buried for a prolonged period,
they chemically react with minerals in the soil, and depending on
where these objects are found, different changes are observed in
the metals due to several types of underground environmental
conditions. These objects are often highly corroded with hardcalcareous deposits and corrosion products of metals. It may bementioned that sometimes objects have hard lumps of soil
attached. For example, ¿ve bron]e images were rescued from thearchaeological excavation of Joggodal Bihara, attached to which
was a large amount of hard as above soil.
FIGURE 2

A large number of antiquities are recovered each year throughsurface collection from ancient sites and from archaeologicalexcavations conducted by the department. After recovery, theseare sent to the archaeological laboratory for examination,
chemical conservation and analysis. Having done the necessary
work, some artefacts are sent to museums for display and the restof them are kept in storage. These artefacts are made of bron]e,iron, copper, stone, pottery, etc. 9ery rare silver and gold objects
are also recovered.

6

FIGURE 1 Silver and copper coins (surface collection)

Before treatment

Before treatment

After treatment

After treatment

In addition, rescued artefacts are affected by minerals likechloride, sulphates, etc. But more minerals are observed in
excavated objects.
The archaeological laboratory applies the best method ofchemical treatment for these objects in order to conserve them.
Both mechanical and chemical treatments are applied according
to the preservative state of the antiquities. Sometimes chemicaltreatment is carried out on the spot if necessary. In a broad sense,
the most common methods applied comprise mechanicalcleaning and chemical treatment. The super¿cial deposition of
calcareous materials is removed by mechanical treatment with ascalpel blade and vibrospatula, whereas the soluble salts present
in the metallic antiquities are removed by chemical treatment.
In the case of copper, bron]e, iron and other metallic objects, a
10-15 solution of sodium hexametaphosphate in water is used
FIGURE 3

to remove the hard incrustations. But this treatment for some
objects is not found to be suitable to complete removal of
incrustation, and thus a cleaning solution consisting of 10%
citric acid and 4% thiourea in water with a non-ionic detergent isutilized and is found to be effective. Alkaline Rochelle salt
(solution of 50 grams of caustic soda and 150 grams of sodium
potassium tartrate in 1 liter of water) is also used for this purpose
where the patina of objects of copper and copper alloys is notconsidered. A sesquicarbonate and paper pulp method is applied
for the gradual extraction of soluble salts. This process is
continued for a long time. To detect the removal of salt, a
conductivity instrument and test kits are used. Finally, a thinprotective coating effective for each respective object is appliedon the surface to obtain a uniform ¿lm coating as a future
safeguard. In the past, we used P9A dissolved in sulphur free
toluene as a protective coating. But nowadays we apply petaloid
B with xylene instead of P9A. Apart from this process, in the¿rst stage of the treatment of terracotta and pottery objects, theobjects are allowed to soak in water for a few days to loosen thehard soily deposits settled on them and for the effusion of salt.
Then they are dried and the soily accretions are removed fromtheir surface mechanically. After that, the pulp method is applied
for complete removal of the salt. On the other hand, due toprolonged storage in unfavourable environmental conditions,organic objects are prone to decay and attacked by insects. The
processes required for preservation of these artefacts are selectedaccording to their state of preservation. The PE* method forwood and leather dressing (mixture of 200 g lanolin, 30 ml
cedarwood oil, 50 g beeswax, 330 ml hexane) is applied.
Sometimes the PE* method cannot be used for large-sizedwooden objects, such as boats, because of ¿nancial restrictions.
(Figure 4,5)

Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

Highly corroded objects with very little metallic core or no coreleft are seen sometimes. For example, 14 iron ingots wererecovered from the departmental excavation at Bagerhat. (Figure 3)

For protection from insect attack, fumigation with thymol isadopted, and for museums, an insecticide such as 1, 4 dichlorobenzene
or pentachloro phenate is used.

Before treatment

After treatment

In addition, we want to talk about the present condition ofmonuments of our country. Biological agents such as plants,
moss, lichen, and algae grow on the walls and roofs of ourmonuments and cause damage to them. When plants grow on thewalls and gradually develop, their roots penetrate deep into thewall and form cracks. Finally, the monuments are liable to breakup and fall. When moss, lichen, and algae grow on the monuments,
their roots change the surface of the building, such as staining,changes in the original colour, loss of beauty, etc. Besides, they
absorb water through capillary action from the ground during
inhabitation and through the wetting and drying process, thebuilding becomes damaged. Sodium arsenite is used for
destroying the plants and a 2-5% solution of ammonia in water isused to remove moss, lichen, algae, etc. But after a certain period,
these biological agents again grow on the same places. (Figure6)
As Bangladesh is a developing country, we face many challenges
in the ¿eld of chemical conservation. Firstly, our budget is notadequate to maintain our archaeological sites and museums. For

7

Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

the same reason, the archaeological laboratory of Bangladesh is
not well equipped with modern instruments. Secondly,
employees of the archaeological laboratory have not acquired
modern techniques of chemical conservation due to the lack ofproper training. On the other hand, most archaeological site
museum buildings were built before the liberation period, i.e.,

before 1971. So, museum buildings are not suitable for theexhibition of antiquities.

FIGURE 4 Large-sized wooden boat

FIGURE 5 Display system for antiquities(new constructed museum)

We hope that we shall be successful in overcoming this situation
very soon and deliver fruitful chemical conservation for ourcountry.

FIGURE 6 Ancient temple (Raja Ram)

Before treatment

After treatment

FIGURE 7 General view of museum building (old)8Present Situation and Challenges for Conservation of Museum Works in Pakistan

Tahir Saeed, Deputy Director
Department of Archaeology and Museum, National History and Literary Heritage Division, Government of Pakistan
Arshad Ullah, Assistant Director
Department of Archaeology and Museum, National History and Literary Heritage Division, Government of Pakistan

Cultural Heritage of Pakistan:
The land where the present-day nation of Pakistan is located has
been an important seat of a number of the world’s leading
civilizations. There is much archaeological evidence ranging
from the pre-historic to the colonial period to support this claim.
Traces of human activity during the Stone Age are well attestedon the soil of Pakistan in the Potohar region of Punjab province
and at Kot Mondahi and Las Bela in Balochistan province. The
remains of the earliest Neolithic period have been discovered on
the Kacchi Plain near Sibi at Mehrgarh, Balochistan. It was herethat settled life and cultivation began during the 8th to 9th millennia
BCE. This provides the base for the subsequent emergence of
one of the world’s oldest civilizations in the form of “Indus
Valley Civilization” during the 3rd millennium BCE.
The Achaemenian period of Persia established their sovereignty
during the 6th century BCE over most of the lands comprisingpresent-day Pakistan. Buddhism reached Gandhara (the northernpart of Pakistan) in the 3rd century BCE during the reign of Asoka
the Great of the Mauryan dynasty, and Àourished under the royal
patronage of the successive ruling dynasties of the Indo-Greeks,
Scythians, and Parthians. It reached is climax in the 2nd century
CE under the Kushans. The ¿rst impulse of Islam was felt in thesouth-western regions of Pakistan when Muhammad Bin Qasim
entered Sindh province in the early 8th century CE. The Mughal’srule from the 16th to 18th centuries CE is witnessed as an important
episode in terms of the socio-cultural as well as political history
of Pakistan.
The main objectives of conservation work:
It is widely understood that all materials decay over time, evenwhen they are housed in apparently bene¿cial conditions.
Among them, some barely change at all; some change more
rapidly. In this context, conservation has two main aims: the ¿rst
is to limit the rate of decay; the second is to make objects
physically accessible to those interested in them. The foundationof both these aims is the need to understand objects in all theircomplexity and dif¿culty.
Conservation concepts and applications:
A number of concepts guide conservation practice. It is often
argued that the most ethical approach to conservation is to accept
an object in its current material state and, as far as possible,

Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

Pakistan

prevent further change, or preventive conservation. This
normally involves modifying and controlling the environment inwhich objects are housed or displayed. However, few objects arestable or undamaged. It is generally agreed that as conservators,
we should aim to retain the original material and that conservation
treatment should involve doing only what is necessary to ensure
the desired safety and stability of the object. This is often called‘minimum intervention’. The concept of minimum intervention
may sometimes seem contradictory in practice because in somecases the condition of an object is such that it actually requiresvery extensive treatment and regular maintenance to ensure
some form of continued existence and accessibility.
Conserving the different materials of objects:
The objects are given conservation attention depending on theway they are to be used in the museum. How they are conserved
then depends on their materials and condition, and available
resources such as time and expertise. Hence, the assessment of
their condition requires an understanding of materials and thecauses and effects of deterioration.
Signi¿cance of Conservation work:
Objects are more than just material things as they have meaningfor people. Assessment and determining the signi¿cance of an
object depends on consultation and on understanding andweighing the many possible views of those with an interest in an
object.
Conservation by accurate decisions:
There is a range of factors relating to both material andsigni¿cance which are considered by curators and conservators
before making a decision on conservation treatment. There israrely just one possible course of action, so various conservation
options are considered and the risks and bene¿ts of each areweighed and compared. This ensures that future conservation
actions are based on understanding the state of the object at thetime, and the thinking which inÀuenced the conservation choices.
Current situation for conservation of museum works inPakistan:
The ancient land of Pakistan served as a hub of culturalinteraction between different civilizations. This fact is evidenced
from the rich cultural wealth discovered through archaeological

9

Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

explorations and excavations in the different areas of Pakistan.
Further, it should be noted that during the long history of thiscountry, the objects in daily use were in fact objet d’art made ofgold, silver and other precious and semi-precious metals andstones. Numerous pieces of this art—illustrated manuscripts ofclassical Persian works, albums of painting and calligraphy, goldand silver coins, and other artefacts—are now the proud
possessions of different museums and art galleries in Pakistan.
The rich immovable and movable cultural heritage of Pakistan
can be viewed from the following histograms (Figs. 1 & 2 with
Tables 1 & 2):

Punjab Sindh KPK Balochistan
149

129

92

GilgitBaltistan

ICT

Total

1

4

405

30

TABLE 1. Distribution of sites/monuments in provinces

4 1
Punjab

30

Sindh

149

92

KPK
Baloch
Isld.
GB

129

FIGURE 1. Distribution of 405 protected archaeological sites andmonuments (immovable) in Pakistan (province-wise)

Sindh

Punjab

KPK

193,495 16,924

17,114Islamabad Balochistan
8,000

2,500

Total
238,033

TABLE 2. Artefacts preserved in museums in Pakistan

Repositories of tangible cultural heritage at the national level:I.
Peshawar Museum
Main Collection: Gandhara, Pre and Islamic period,
manuscripts, paintings, numismatics
II.
Lahore Museum
Main Collection: Gandhara, Pre and Islamic period,
manuscripts, paintings, numismatics
III.
National Museum of Pakistan, Karachi
Main Collection: Gandhara, Pre and Islamic period,
manuscripts, paintings, numismatics, armory, ethnologicalIV.
Dir Museum, Chakdara
Main Collection: Gandhara
V.
Hund Museum
Main Collection: GandharaVI.
Sir Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum Museum
Main Collection: GandharaVII.
Archaeological Museum, Moenjodaro
Main Collection: Archaeological site material.
VIII. Archaeological Museum Harappa
Main Collection: Archaeological site material
IX.
Archaeological Museum, Umerkot
Main Collection: Archaeological site material
X.
Archaeological Museum, Banbhore.
Main Collection: Archaeological site material
XI.
Archaeological Museum, Taxila
Main Collection: Archaeological site material
XII.
Archaeological Museum, Swat
Main Collection: Archaeological site material
XIII. Islamabad Museum Main Collection: Gandhara, Pre andHistoric, Islamic material
XIV. Quaid-i-Azam Birthplace Museum, Karachi
Main Collection: House Museum, furniture, costumes,
manuscripts, etc
XV. Quaid-i-Azam House Museum, Karachi
Main Collection: House Museum, furniture, costumes,
manuscripts, etc.
XVI. Allama Iqbal Museum, Lahore
XVII. Main Collection: House Museum, furniture, costumes,
manuscripts, etc.
XVIII. Allama Iqbal Museum, Sialkot
Main Collection: House Museum, furniture, costumes,
manuscripts, etc.
Material of cultural wealth in the repositories of Pakistan:

1% 4%
7%

7%

81%

Sindh
PunjabKPK
BalochIsld

FIGURE 2. Province-wide distribution of movable antiquities indifferent museums

10

Description
1 Schist stone objects (individual and panels)
2 Stucco objects (individual and panels)
objects (deities, armlets, vases, plates, oil lamps,
3 Bronzedecorative objects, etc.,)
4 Terracotta/ceramic objects (animal toys, ¿gurines, etc.,)
Elements (arched panels, capitals door jambs,
5 Architectural
decorative panels, brackets, cornices, arch fragments, etc.,)
6 Ivory/bone objects (miniature pots, toys, etc.,)
7 Wooden objects.
8 Metallurgical objects (gold, silver, bronze, iron, copper) numismatics
9 Paper (manuscripts)
10 Costumes/textiles

Some of the main issues related to conservation laboratories
in Pakistan:
1. There is an acute shortage of trained conservationists andchemists for proper preservation of cultural assets in the
shape of both movable and immovable antiquities (Fig.3)
2. Technical services for the purpose of research,documentation and conservation of movable objects need
to be strengthened and enlarged to come up to the required
international standards. For instance, no provincial
departments of archaeology can provide services
involving various methodologies of chemical treatment of
antiquities and their dating in terms of scienti¿c standards
such as C-14, Thermo luminescence, etc.
3. The establishment of more conservation laboratories at
all World Heritage and national level sites/monuments isrequired.
4. The latest and most modern equipment needs to besupplied for existing laboratories.
5. Conservators usually use chemical and scienti¿c analysis
for the examination and treatment of cultural works.
However, the modern conservation laboratory uses
equipment such as microscopes, spectrometers, andx-ray instruments, and these are required to better
understand objects and their components. The data thus
collected helps in deciding the conservation treatments tobe applied to the objects.
Basic factors responsible for deterioration of artefacts in themuseums:
1. Physical Factors(i) Humidity(ii) Temperature (moisture)
2. Chemical Factors(i) Pollution of the atmosphere(ii) Dust etc
3. Physical + Chemical Factors(i) Light

1% 1% 1%
5%
21%
71%

Archst.
Consvt.
ChemistArchitect
P.Consv.
T.Gudie

Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

Main conservation laboratories responsible for the preservationof cultural heritage in Pakistan:i) Central Archaeological Laboratory, Lahore
It is responsible for proper conservation of tangible
cultural heritage in the form of building materials.
ii) National Museum of Pakistan’s Paper Conservation
Laboratory, Karachi
Its responsibilities are to take necessary steps for theconservation of manuscripts, books, paintings, etc.
iii) Water & Soil Investigation Laboratory, Moenjodaro
This laboratory is responsible for the conservation ofdifferent materials pertaining to the World Heritage Siteof Moenjodaro.
iv) Tile & Mosaic Laboratory, Lahore
This laboratory takes necessary steps for the proper
conservation of different materials used in the buildingsof the World Heritage Monument of Lahore Fort andShalimar Garden, Lahore.

FIGURE 3. Human resources working the field and conservationlaboratories.

4.

Biological Factors(i) Microorganisms(ii) Insects and pests (e.g. termite)

Challenges & problems regarding conservation works in themuseums:
In Pakistan, museum collections comprise different materials
such as schist, wood, metal, clay, terracotta, stucco, paper(manuscripts), ivory, etc.:
1. The wooden cultural heritage comprises artefacts such as
wooden buildings, wooden structures, wooden craftwork,
wooden furniture; and the archaeological artefacts arefound through archaeological excavations. The former isdamaged by abiotic factors such as UV rays andhydrolysis; and by biotic factors such as insects andbrown rot fungi. The common damage from such factors
are wood cavities, small pits on the tree surface,pulverization into wood powder, and colour changes.
The latter, mostly damp wood or waterlogged wood, isdamaged by soft rot fungi, bacteria, and borers. The
damage from such factors consists of softening, colourchanges and massive loss of wood. Damage to wooden
artefacts is closely linked to the water content inside thewood, which is affected by its surrounding environment.
2. An essential cause of deterioration in metal objects iscorrosion of the metal objects or object deterioration byinteraction with the environment. The most inÀuential
factors in the deterioration of historical objects are therelative humidity and air pollution, while in archaeologicalobjects, composition, depth, humidity and amount ofgasses in the soil all play a crucial role.
3. In terracotta/clay objects the degradation of an object
occurs as a result of the interaction between theenvironment or with the materials that form the object.
4. However, in the case of ceramics, environmental factors
are the major cause. There are several ways in whichceramics break down physically and chemically.
5. Similarly, manuscripts, textile artefacts, and stone objects
are also vulnerable to deterioration due to different
physical, chemical and other problems.

11Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

Current situation of conservation techniques and practices
applied:
The treatments which we usually apply to damaged wooden,
metal and ceramic artefacts can be summarized as follows:1.

For wooden objects it is essential to control the humidity
and the overall environment the, as well as biotic
problems with the help of humidi¿ers and dehumidi¿ers.

2.

3.

Similarly, for metal objects the main treatments applied
are to control moisture, humidity, and environmental
control, and to curb the impact of chemical reactions.
However, for ceramics/clay objects the treatments which
we usually apply are to control environmental problems
with the help of the available human and material
resources.

FIGURE 4. Old wooden base of wall FIGURE 5. Wooden pillar and column inshowing deteriorated condition
dilapidated condition

FIGURE 6. Old wooden architecture

FIGURE 7. Wooden shaft of chariot wheel from 6 century B.C.

FIGURE 8,9. Old wooden door eroded by physical and chemical effects

FIGURE 10. Old wooden objects in the museum

FIGURE 12. Broken bronze bowl displayed in the museum

FIGURE 11. Old wooden window

12

FIGURE 13. Old bronze objects displayed in the Museum

Thematic Training Course (Country Report)

FIGURE 16. Ivory combs displayed in the museum showing cracks

FIGURE 14. Old bronze ever FIGURE 1 5 . O l d b r o n z e v e s s e ldisplayed in the Museum
displayed in the Museum

FIGURE 17. Toilet tray with handle made of ivory showing cracks / erosion

FIGURE 19. Bronze mirror with cracks and erosion

FIGURE 18. Mirror handle made of ivory with cracks and erosion

FIGURE 20. Broken bronze mirror with ivory handle

FIGURE 21. Broken terracotta bowl lying in storage FIGURE 22. Broken terracotta bowls lying in storage

FIGURE 23. Broken terracotta bowls lying in storage

13

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

Bangladesh
Final Report
Mohammad Abul Hossain, Junior Archaeological Chemist
Archaeological Laboratory, Department Archaeology, Ministry of Cultural Affairs

Duration of the training Course:
24.07.2018 to 07.08.2018.
Participants:
There were ¿ve participants in this training program: one
participant was from Afghanistan, two were from Bangladesh
and two participants were from Pakistan.
Orientation program and opening ceremony:
The orientation session and opening ceremony were held on
24.07.2018.
Features of this training course:
Both practical and theoretical lectures were included in thistraining course. Besides this, there were also on-site study
sessions (Conservation Practice at Laboratory, Environmental
Control at Exhibition Room).
Museum and storage artefacts are deteriorated by environmental
change. So, the environment is very important for the preservationand exhibition of artefacts. Some of the main deterioration factorsof cultural property in the environment include temperature,humidity, illuminance and air quality. Other deterioration factors
are living organisms, natural disasters, vibration, human acts, etc.
Most artefacts must be kept at around 20°C. But black and white¿lm has to be kept at 21°C. Humidity parameters for different
artefacts are as follows:
Artefact
Excavated artefacts
Ivory, leather, parchment
Oil paintings
Fossils
Metal, stone, ceramics
Film

Humidity (%)
50 ࡱ 65
50 ࡱ 65
50 ࡱ 6545 ࡱ 55› 45› 30

We learned how to control the deterioration factors in theenvironment for artefacts from this training.
Analysis is very important for museums and excavated artefacts
before conservation work. Non-destructive analysis is applicablefor museums and excavated artefacts. Non-destructive analysis
is done by X-ray, XRF, XRD. We learned how to address nondestructive analysis by X-ray, XRF, XRD.
Some conservation work is similar with that carried out in Japanand some is dissimilar. Similarities between current practices in
Bangladesh and Japan are as follows:

16

Bangladesh
Dust is removed from artefacts with a soft brush.
Salt is removed by chemical methods.
Paraloid B is used for coating.
PEG is used for coating of wooden artefacts.
Epoxy resin is used for pudding of wooden artefacts.
A vibra spatula is used for cleaning.

Japan
<es
<es
<es
<es
<es
<es

Dissimilarities between current practices in Bangladesh andJapan are as follows:
Japan
X-Ray, XRF and XRD areused in Japan for analysis.
Air-abrasive techniques
are used for metal artefact
cleaning.
Temperature and humidity
are controlled in museums
and storage areas.
Cleaning is addressed bymechanical ways.
Temperature and humidity
recorders are always
running.
Air conditioning is used in
all museums.
The RP system is used.
Dehumidi¿ers are used.
A dehumidi¿cation agent isused in showcases.

Bangladesh
X-Ray, XRF and XRD are
not used.
Air-abrasive techniques are
not used.
Temperature and humidity
are not controlled inmuseums and storage areas.
Cleaning is addressed bychemical ways.
Temperature and humidity
recorders are not always
running.
Air conditioning is not usedin all museums.
The RP system is not used.
Dehumidi¿ers are not used.
A dehumidi¿cation agent is
not used in showcases.

I have learned many new methods for the conservation of
museum and storage artefacts from this training course. I will try
to apply these new methods in my country gradually. At ¿rst, we
will install air conditioners and dehumidi¿ers in all museums
and storage areas. Besides this, dehumidi¿er agents and RP
system methods will be applied in showcases in all museums.
Added to that, temperature and humidity recorders will be set up
in all museums and storage areas gradually. In my country, I will
try to reduce the chemical cleaning of artefacts but increase themechanical cleaning of artefacts. I must say that the nondestructive analysis of artefact is very important before starting
conservation work. But it will be dif¿cult to use non-destructive
analysis of artefacts in my country because we do not have X-ray,
XRF or XRD. But we will try to solve this problem in my country.
Many topics for conservation of artefacts were included in thistraining course. So, it turned out that 15 days was insuf¿cient.
The duration of this course should instead be 30 days.

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

Overall, training is very important for the conservation of artefacts
because a conservator may destroy the artefacts duringconservation without such training. This type of institute is notavailable in all countries, and there is no such type of institute in
my country. So, it was very necessary for us to receive this type oftraining.

Analysis by XRF

Participants and members of ACCU

Salt removed by chemicals

Lecture on environmental effects

Experiment on environmental effects

Metal artefact being cleaned using an airbrasive technique

17

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

Bangladesh
Similarities and differences in chemical conservation between Japan and Bangladesh
Md. Liaquat Ali, Archaeological Chemist
Department Archaeology, Ministry of Cultural Affairs

Artefacts and monuments all over the world are threatened bynumerous factors such as population pressure, irregular planning,haphazard development and expansion, the lifestyles of local
dwellers and many other reasons. On the other hand, theenvironmental effects on archaeological artefacts and monuments
have acquired a new dimension throughout the world due to theindustrial and technological advancements of modern
civilization. The production and use of a vast number ofchemicals, the greenhouse effect, acid rain and consequentglobal warming have also been responsible for the degradationand decay of historical artefacts and monuments. Excavation andexploration, conservation planning, supervision and managementof conservation works, and exhibition of artefacts in a proper
manner are some of the responsibilities of the Department ofArchaeology of Bangladesh. Chemical conservation is one of themost important of these. Proper management skills, correct
decision making and the correct approach being taken at the righttime are essential to ful¿l this task. Having experience in this¿eld is very important for achieving good results. So far, I havebeen engaged in different types of conservation projects in mycareer from time to time, and that involvement has helped me togain good experience in the chemical conservation ¿eld in mycountry. Again, I have been rewarded with an opportunity togain further experience at the international level by participatingin this training program.
A training program was arranged, titled “A thematic training
course for mid-career professionals of cultural heritage protectionof the Asia-Paci¿c region” and especially “Conservation science
for museum work” by ACCU Nara, Japan from 24 July to 7
August, 2018. There were ¿ve participants, from Pakistan,
Afghanistan and Bangladesh. I was one of the participants in thattraining program. I arrived in Japan on 23 July, 2018 and wascordially received at Kansai International Airport in Osaka, andall necessary arrangements for the training program were madefor me by the ACCU Nara of¿ce. They gave us all the support
we needed so that we could get maximum bene¿t from thetraining course.
The opening ceremony and orientation of the training program
was held at the ACCU Nara of¿ce on 24 July, 2018. After the
opening ceremony the scheduled work began. On 25 July, 2018
every participant delivered a presentation on their country reportas per the schedule. (Figure 1)
After that, a step-by-step program followed covering the themesof the course. The theoretical part was covered through lecturesusing PowerPoint presentations and the practical part was

18

covered by working. I had a good opportunity to gain experienceand knowledge in a vast area in the ¿eld of chemical conservation
during the training course. I would like to mention brieÀy someof the things that I have gathered from the program.
In the training course I learned about the modern and traditional
techniques which should be used for chemical conservation in
Bangladesh. Consequently, topics such as the mechanism of
corrosion of metal objects, environments for preservation andexhibition, desalination, and restoration were delivered byexperts. (Figure 2)
Both the theoretical and practical work was carried out by theparticipants under the supervision of experts. We were alsotaught how to use electronic devices for the examination andidenti¿cation of the conservation state of artefacts and for theelements of inorganic objects. The latest modern technology forchemical conservation is used in Japan. They have many
facilities and laboratories to acquire knowledge and for becoming
more ef¿cient in the related ground especially in chemicalconservation. The experts showed us how humidity affects
artefacts and causes deterioration. On the other hand, they alsotaught us remedies that could counter the effect of humidity on
artefacts. (Figure 3)
Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties has
many electronic devices such as XRF, XRD, radiographic
equipment, scanners etc. to detect the conservation state andelements of an artefact. It is therefore very easy to identify thecondition of an artefact and also know what kind of treatment isneeded for that artefact. Not only that, through the help of thesetypes of devices, a researcher can obtain answers to many of thequestions that he/she has. Chemical treatment work has become
easier with these devices through the identi¿cation of problems.
During the training period I learned how to operate these devices.
Although it is not possible to fully learn how to operate suchdevices in two or three days, the trainers tried their best to teachus to gain maximum bene¿t from the training. By using XRF and
XRD we analysed some samples like iron, copper, lead, nickel,
cobalt, zinc, calcium carbonate, calcium oxide, iron oxide, etc.
(Figure 4)
The trainers discussed the desalination techniques used in Japan.
Salinity is one of the greatest problems for artefacts andmonuments all over the world. So, in this case, all participants
were very alert during the discussion session so that they could
know about new methods or techniques. The trainers discussed
in detail so many methods and techniques relating to desalination.

As part of our training program we visited the “Gango-ji Temple
Institute for Research of Cultural Property.” As a privateorganization, it is most unique, and possesses a wealth ofequipment. There is a large space for researching culturalproperty. We also visited Nara Palace Site Museum, Nara Palace
Site Museum, Kitora Tumulus Mural Experience Museum andAsuka Historical Museum. Among these, Nara Palace Site
Museum is an excellent one. (Figure 6)
During the training period, I got to know that chemicalconservation in both Japan and Bangladesh is very similar. Onlysome of the methods are different due to the use of technology.
Since Bangladesh is a nascent country, it has no well-equipped

FIGURE 1. Opening ceremony and presentation
sessionlaboratories or electronic devices such as XRF, XRD,
radiographic equipment, CT scanners, etc. So, the majority of
our chemical conservation work is carried out with chemicalmaterials. On the other hand, Japan has more than one research
institute like the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties which uses modern instruments. So, they use thehighest technology for chemical conservation. The opinion ofJapanese conservators is that prevention is better than cure. But
we have no option to think in this way because of our lack oftechnological devices and other limitations. But I think that there
are many similarities in chemical conservation between Japanand Bangladesh. The techniques that I have learned through thetraining program can be applied to chemical conservation in
Bangladesh. I also would like to use the knowledge that I
gathered, and I shall gain a great deal by applying it in the context
in which I work. It was interesting to study the similarities anddifferences in the application of techniques of chemicalconservation between Japan and our country, Bangladesh.

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

Apart from this, the experts have talked about chemicalconservation of metallic and wooden objects. It was very niceand educative to me. I was surprised to know that the Nara
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties does not use
chemical materials for cleaning artefacts. They apply only
mechanical methods. Among these methods, most of them are
similar to what we use in our country. But we use both mechanicaland chemical methods in for cleaning artefacts. Some of thepoints were confusing to me, but overall, the discussion was
fruitful. I also learned about the restoration of wooden objects. In
Bangladesh there are few wooden objects. So I may not need torestore a huge number of wooden objects in the future. However,I think that this kind of restoration work is not so complicated.
(Figure 5)

The program was really interesting and educative to me. I hopethe experience that I have obtained from the training program
will help me in my professional duties in the future as I belong to
the chemical conservation ¿eld in Bangladeshi archaeology. My
opinion is that it would have been even better if the course had
been longer; i.e., at least one month. Finally, I pay my heartiest
respect to those distinguished people who organized thisprogram, and who gave me the chance to participate in it.

FIGURE 2. General view of lecture session

FIGURE 3. Participants carrying out practicalwork to observe the action of humidity on
artefacts

FIGURE 4. Participants observing the operation FIGURE 5. Restoration of wooden objects FIGURE 6. Participants visiting the Gangoji
of XRF and XRD
Temple Institute for Research of Cultural
done by the participants
Property

19

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

Pakistan
Conservation Problems of Cultural Artefacts and Treatment with Modern Equipment
Arshad Ullah, Curator
Department of Archaeology and Museum, National History and Literary Heritage Division

Cultural heritage whether it is moveable or immoveable is agreat asset for a country, which becomes its pride in the comityof nations. Pakistan has one of the great cultural heritages, and in
this part of the world, history goes back to the Stone Age. The
conservation of these artefacts, which are composed of stone,
clay, stucco, bronze, iron, copper, gold, ivory, glass, wood, andother auxiliary materials, is a gigantic task for Pakistan as
conservation laboratories are not equipped with the modern
devices which are prevalent in developed countries. A lack ofprofessional expertise further aggravates the problem, and in this
scenario, conservation of artefacts is the top priority of the
Department of Archaeology and Museums of Pakistan, which isthe custodian of cultural heritage of Pakistan. In this thematictraining course for mid-career professionals on cultural heritage
protection being organized by ACCU, we learned about thelatest equipment which diagnoses problems according to its
proportion and enables conservators to apply the latest techniques
to solve these problems.
In Japan, for conservation and repair of pottery, they apply
modern techniques like CT scanning, and join fragments withacrylic resin, epoxy resin or other material with extreme patience
to reconsolidate the earthenware. During conservation, tube
ducts which suck up dust are used. In Pakistan we possess mucholder earthenware from the Mehargarh period (8th century BC)
and the Indus period (3rd century BC), bearing motifs of ¿sh,animals, Àowers, etc., but for their restoration we use rudimentary
techniques and normally apply epoxy for joining parts of thepottery. For missing motifs, we do not apply any new additions;rather, after restoration, the missing pieces are left as they are.
Conservation experts in Japan apply great techniques for paper
conservation, such as the method of sukibame (leaf casting) for
treatment of historical documents damaged by insects, which
was very interesting to observe. They explained how to segregate
the paper sheets of a document stuck together due to bug holes,
temporarily ¿xing the fragments, pushing in washi paper andmaking holes to bind the paper. We learned that by maintaining
proper relative humidity between 55% and 65%, the manuscripts
can be preserved without applying any chemicals or techniques.
Pakistan has ancient manuscripts which are displayed inmuseums and kept in storage, but their condition is generally not
good, as they are victims of weathering and biological effects.
Insects such as termites are a constant threat to manuscripts
being preserved in storage. Our department also has a paper
conservation lab, but it is not equipped with much modern
equipment or prudent technical staff, but by maintaining relative
humidity between 55% and 65% we will be able to preserve our20

priceless manuscripts.
The methodology for metal ware conservation treatment shownto us was marvellous. The stages from pre-treatment investigationof metal artefacts, desalination, resin impregnation, coating,joining, restoration, and post treatment investigation were
elaborated and practically demonstrated to our group. In
Pakistan, our museums have a great number of metallic objects,
especially made of bronze and copper, but they are rusted andconstantly in a state of decay due to humidity, weather conditions,
dust and other auxiliary problems.
An X-ray Fluorescence Analysis (XRF) machine is a great
instrument to ¿nd out the values of components that exist in
metallic artefacts. It identi¿es the elements that comprise amaterial in a non-destructive way. XRF (X-ray) analysis can beapplied to inorganic materials like gold, copper, iron, ceramics,
bronze, etc. Using this machine, through technique and constantpractice, one can learn to extract exact information about thecomposition of a metallic object and obtain a hard copy of theresult which clearly explains the information via a paper chart.
By examining the chart on which K, L and M lines are mentioned,
a conclusion can be reached by matching the graph lines thatappear on a PC screen. The XRF machine needs a great amountof attention and practice for the operator to master its operation.
The instructor demonstrated how to obtain good results throughan XRF device. It needs human attention to avoid any kind of
miss measurement of the composition of elements. Inorganic
material like iron, bronze, copper, pigments, etc. can be analysedusing this device to ¿nd out the composition of artefacts. In thisphase of the training, all the groups were able to practicallyhandle the machine and had calculated the ratio of different
components through given columns of values of different
chemical materials. There are many types of XRF devices, suchas devices with a chamber, hand-held devices, and a number ofothers. But the accuracy of information can be enhanced througha device with a chamber with Manual calculation of data.
In Pakistan, the Department of Archaeology and Museums lacks
these kinds of modern devices. We possess a great number ofartefacts ranging from the Stone Age to the British period, andthey are composed of various materials like stone, iron, bronze,
copper, gold, silver, terracotta, stucco, clay, wood, ivory, glazed
ceramics, etc., but a shortage of modern equipment and lack ofhighly quali¿ed technical staff is a hindrance to keeping these
artefacts in perfect condition, and whenever there is a need forany kind of repair or maintenance, our department ¿nds itself
unable to solve the problem according to the need. Our

In this group training we also learned how to use an X-ray
Diffraction Spectroscopy (XRD) device for ¿nding out thecomponents of organic artefacts. The usage is quite dif¿cultcompared to the XRF device though in many cases it is necessary
to ¿rst apply the XRF X-ray method and then proceed with XRD
analysis to accumulate the exact values of the composition of theartefact in question. Neither of these modern devices areavailable to cultural heritage departments in Pakistan, and it isalmost impossible to analyse artefacts in such a fabulously
perfect manner. Many foreign archaeological missions engaged
in archaeological activities have taken materials back to theirrespective countries in order to analyse their composition, andmost of the time they apply the destructive XRD method, which
has eventually culminated in the annihilation of artefacts, which
is a great loss to the cultural heritage of Pakistan. For XRD (Xray) analysis, the sample has to be grinded completely to make it
even, put onto the designated glass and placed under the cameraof the XRD device. In this process, ¿rst-hand knowledge of thecomposition of elements of the artefact sample—from where it
was retrieved, its period, age, and comparative information withother artefacts of the same age—has to be known, which isnecessary for the computer software to make graphs of thevarious elements in the artefact, otherwise, the PC will carry out
research, which can be erroneous. If the element is completely
unknown, then it is unavoidable to resort to XRF X-ray analysefor ¿rst-hand information. Many items of Pakistan cultural
heritage like manuscripts, textiles, animal bones, etc. In storage
are subjected to high humidity and are therefore vulnerable toconstant decay and erosion, which can be treated with thesemodern devices.
Wooden artefacts and architecture in Pakistan are highly
vulnerable to weathering. Wooden artefacts are damaged byphysical factors such as UV rays and hydrolysis; and by biotic
factors such as insects and brown rot fungi. Common damage
from such factors includes wood cavities, small pits on thesurface, pulverization into wood powder and colour changes.
The conglomeration of various disadvantages plays a signi¿cantrole in the degradation of wooden artefacts and architecture,
which are a glorious reminder of the Àabbergasting Muslim
architecture in Pakistan. In Japan, the technique of ¿lling pits
and joints with epoxy is prevalent, along with applying colour on
the retro¿t part of the wooden artefacts. In Pakistan, we also use
the same method, but some of the wooden artefacts are so

extensively eroded by insects that it can be hard to restore themwith that method. In Japan, PEG (Polyethylene Glycol) is used
for the dimensional stabilization of wood and wood products,
preventing shrinkage, discoloration and cracking, and helping tomaintain the wood’s softness. Dipping large wooden piece in
PEG solution extracts moisture from it, but the process has to bemonitored properly. In Pakistan, the same mechanism is applied
for large wooden pillars. Another big problem for woodenarchitecture in Pakistan is biotic factors such as insects, especiallytermites, which infest the wooden doors, wooden pillars,
columns of old wooden architecture and other cultural heritage
composed of wood. We normally use pesticides to control thisthreat by drilling underground and pouring in pesticides, which
penetrate towards the base of the wooden architecture to erase
termites from that level. Pesticides are also sprinkled on thesurface. But this method can be counterproductive and can be
hazardous for the wooden architecture.

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

laboratories are equipped with old machines which do not ful¿lcurrent needs for the maintenance of artefacts. In most cases, weuse a microscope to obtain information on the composition ofelements, which is less than perfect most of the time, but thismethod has become out of date considering the evolution ofmodern devices and techniques. The current state of affairs of
our museum and reserve collections that the most suitable XRF
device is hand-held device, as most artefacts in Pakistan arelarge, and therefore dif¿cult to ¿x in the chamber of an XRF
device. Operation of a hand-held device can smoothly be done
by a crew of two or three experts.

The procedure of cleaning metallic artefacts is marvellous, as inlaboratories of Japan; metallic artefacts are cleaned with the helpof modern devices and advanced techniques which leave noroom for rust and corrosion to remain on the artefacts. In
Pakistan, we normally use old, rudimentary techniques andprocedures for the cleansing of metallic objects of bronze, iron,copper, etc., involving a simple brush and methyl alcohol toremove the dust, or to some extent rust. However, these methods
entail the danger of erasing the surface of objects, as sometimes
if a brush or some hard instrument is used with force, it canscratch the surface of the artefacts.
In Japan, they also use methyl alcohol, which is applied by abrush for cleansing the surface of metallic objects like bronze
and copper if the dust can easily be removed. Use of the
AIRBRASIVE 6500 system device is exceptionally helpful inremoving the dust perfectly. This kind of device is not available
in our Department in Pakistan. For removing rust, anothermethod involving EDTA solution is also used in Japan. In thiscase, a solution of EDTA with ethyl alcohol is prepared. Then apolymer is mixed into this solution as EDTA removes the rustand corrosion from the artefact, but this entails the risk ofpenetrating through the surface into the inside of the artefact. To
counter this threat, the polymer plays the role of an impregnable
wall and stops the penetration of EDTA solution into the metallic
artefact.
Metallic artefacts like iron, bronze, copper, etc. are very prone tocorrosion and deterioration in Pakistan. Objects lying in storage
are particularly affected by humidity, which paves the way forcorrosion and deterioration of artefacts. An iron artefact contains
ferrous chloride and at high humidity creates ferrous chloride
deliquescence, which promotes corrosion of the iron artefact.
The formation of akaganeite also causes fragmentation andcracking in the artefact. We have learned that in Japan, to saveiron artefacts from deterioration, relative humidity (RH) must be
kept at 20% and shall not exceed 56%—for which various
methods are available, such as dehumidifying devices, air

21

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)
22

conditioning, or an RP system (Revolutionary Preservation) to
be installed in the display halls of museums and storage areas.
These methods are actively prevalent in Japan. The best option is
to install air-conditioning along with dehumidi¿er devices, but atthe current juncture in museums and storage areas in Pakistan,
the optimum and most easily available mechanism for saving
metallic artefacts from deterioration is the RP system.
Pakistan has a great number of bronze artefacts ranging from5000 BC to the later Muslim period. The appearance of pitting
corrosion and formation of a light green powdery substancewithin the pitting corrosion is common in the priceless bronze
artefacts of Pakistan. Some of the oldest bronze utensils havedeveloped cracks, and are prone to further decay. The current
condition of storage areas in Pakistani museums is pathetic andthey have become dens of humidity and dust pollution, whichpose a great danger to the priceless artefacts lying there. In thistraining course, we studied that air conditioning, dehumidi¿cation
agents and the RP (Revolutionary Preservation) system arenecessary to keep relative humidity under control in the storage
and display areas of museums. Due to constraints on resources,
Pakistan cannot install air conditioning or dehumidi¿ers instorage areas to control humidity in the near future, but theplacement of the RP system along with metallic artefacts is
feasible in the ¿rst instance, along with the shifting of artefacts

to storage where air ventilation is available. Use ofdehumidi¿cation agents which absorb moisture in high humidity
conditions and release it in low humidity conditions can also be
arranged for the museums and their respective storage areas toimpede the development of corrosion in bronze artefacts.
In Japan, the removal of mural paintings from The Kitora
Tumulus, involving jumbling to stick closely broken pieces byapplying conservation methods with the use of modern
equipment and devices is marvellous. Among other things, welearned that resin should be applied from the back side on broken
pieces of mural paintings with the utmost care. This methodology
can be applied to a mural painting of Buddha found in Ghandara
which dates back to the 2nd Century BC.
In a nutshell, we learned and practically observed various
modern techniques and usage of the latest devices for theconservation of artefacts, but it is next to impossible to compare
the laboratories of Japan with those of Pakistan. Lack of modern
devices, methodologies and experts are some factors which wehave yet to overcome. The knowledge and training imparted to
us in this training course will prove to be a great leap in the right
direction, despite constraints on resources. And last but not least,
the expert’s presentation style and the environment for learningin this training course were simply superb.

Challenges and Needs for Conservation of Museum Works in Pakistan
Tahir Saeed, Deputy Director
Department of Archaeology and Museum, National History and Literary Heritage DivisionThis training programme course at ACCU, Nara, Japan provided
me with an excellent opportunity to learn the latest and mostmodern scienti¿c approaches for the preservation of museum
objects. The aim of this training course was not merely to explore
conservation treatment or methodology but also to focus on the
research/study of deterioration factors and the environment
which promotes these factors. Furthermore, participants wereable to learn and acquire practical experience on different
analytical devices, especially on the usage of XRD (X-Ray
Diffraction Spectroscopy) and XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) for
proper preservation of museum objects. The XRD technique isapplied to the identi¿cation of different types of minerals or
crystalline materials including rust, pigments, etc. found as
chemical compounds such asCuCO3, Cu (OH)2 and 2CuCO3,
whereas XRF is used for the identi¿cation of different chemicalelements such as Fe, Cu, Pb, Sn, etc. The X-ray analysis
technique is useful for the examination of inorganic materials
such as gold, electrum, silver, copper alloys, lead, tin pewter,
iron, stone, ceramic, glass, etc. It was profusely acquainted
during these two weeks training course about the systems andmechanisms of these analytical devices. Besides this, very usefulpractical sessions were held to analyse inorganic material
through destructive and non-destructive methods. However, inPakistan, XRF and XRD are currently not available in ourlaboratories for chemical analysis and diagnosis for proper
treatment and thus preservation of museum objects.
The restoration of wooden artefacts was taught in lectures,
followed by practical sessions using the technique of ¿lling thedamaged parts with epoxy putty and colouring the restored parts
with acrylic paint. In addition, PEG (Polyethylene glycol) is
useful for restoration and treatment of wooden objects, as
impregnated PEG is a hygroscopic material that dissolves when
the relative humidity is over 85%, especially in complex objects
like wood. In Pakistan, the common damage is wood cavities,
small pits, pulverization into wood powder, and colour changes.
Damp wood or waterlogged wood is damaged by soft rot fungi,
bacteria, and borers. Furthermore, the damage from such factors
includes softening, colour changes and massive loss of wood
(Fig. 1-2). The restoration of wooden objects learnt during thistraining course can be applied in our country to small restoration
works of wooden objects. For the treatment of wooden object, it
is essential to control both humidity and biotic with the help of
humidi¿ers and dehumidi¿ers. The study of the environment(temperature and humidity) for preservation and exhibition wastaught in length and the weather was monitored during thetraining course with the help of a portable device. In Japan, thewireless Thermo Recorder device is used to monitor temperatureand humidity. There are three methods for controlling theenvironment for preventive treatment: air-conditioning,
humidi¿cation agents, and the RP System (Revolutionary
Preservation System). Air-conditioners reduce changes inhumidity. Moreover, humidity can be decreased by means ofdehumidi¿ers in storage places. Humidity can also be kept
constant by means of humidi¿cation agents and airtightexhibition cases. RP agents absorb moisture and oxygen fromthe air. The RP system consists of an RP agent and high gas
barrier ¿lm. The relative humidity is reduced to below 10%with
the RP system and this system creates a microenvironment thatis suitable for storage of artefacts. In our country, simple devices
for monitoring the temperature and humidity in museums andreserve collections (storage) are applied as well as the RP system.
In addition, weather stations are installed to monitor the weather
at archaeological sites such as Moenjodaro, Taxila and Peshawar.

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

Pakistan

The mechanism of the corrosion of metal objects was anotherimportant topic of this training course. This included Evan’s
experiment, desalination of iron objects, and treatments forproper preservation of metal objects. The conservation practices
for museum work not only enhanced my knowledge to cope withthe deteriorating condition of museum objects but also provided
an opportunity to better understand conservation problems aswell as to comparatively evaluate the current practices in mycountry. An essential cause of deterioration in metal objects inPakistan is the corrosion of metal objects through interaction withthe environment. The most inÀuential factors in the deteriorationof museum objects is inconsistent relative humidity and airtemperature (Fig. 3-5). The main treatments applied to metal
objects are controlling moisture, humidity, and environment, andcurbing the impact of chemical reaction, which was learnt during
this training course. Similarly, due to environmental factors,
ceramics made of different materials break down physically andchemically, and therefore, regular monitoring of temperature andhumidity is highly necessary for proper preservation of museum
objects. For proper conservation of object is, however, important
not only to use chemicals but to identify the environmental factors
which cause deterioration and also to control the environment toinhibit the deterioration of museum objects (Fig. 6-8).
The desalination of iron objects (Àuid extraction method or
sodium hydroxide method) was also experienced with the help ofchemicals used for this purpose. This type of applications being
used in our laboratories for inorganic material. Further, practicalhands-on work was carried out to understand the process ofdesalination with the use of chemicals known as polymers. Thiskind of substance is used for removing corrosion from inorganic

23

Thematic Training Course (Final Report)

objects and practical experience was acquired on use of an airpressure chamber known as an air-abrasive for desalination of
inorganic objects. In our country, this method of using polymers
is also used for removing corrosion from the surfaces of inorganic
material. The study tour of Gango-ji Temple Institute for Researchof Cultural Property provided another opportunity to observe andexamine the different methodologies adopted for preservation ofcultural heritage, such as research on cultural heritage objects,
and conservation and restoration treatment of different inorganic
materials. Besides this, environment control in an exhibition
room was monitored and studied during the visits to The Kitora
Tumulus Mural Experiential Museum, and Asuka HistoricalMuseum, which helped me to better understand environmental
problems and the application of different techniques forpreservation of museum objects.
In Pakistan, both the federal and provincial departments ofarchaeology lack suitable facilities for under taking various
methodologies for proper treatment of museum objects.
Therefore, the establishment of more conservation laboratories
and provision of the latest and most modern equipment, such as
microscopes, spectrometers, X-ray devices, and XRD and XRF
facilities, for better understanding of cultural objects and theircomponents, are essential to enhancing conservation techniques
for museum objects in Pakistan.

FIGURE 3. A broken bronze bowl due to weather effects

FIGURE 4. A bronze vessel
showing corrosion

FIGURE 5. A bronze mirror showing cracks and erosion due toweather effects

FIGURE 1. The wooden base of a wall showing its deteriorated
condition due to weather effects

FIGURE 2. A wooden pillar and column in a dilapidated condition
due to weather effects

24

FIGURE 6. A damaged ceramic FIGURE 7. A deteriorated condition
vesselof terracotta head

FIGURE 8. View of a mural painting of Buddha showing its
deteriorated condition due to weather effects

II. Group Training Course
1. Country Reports
2. Final Reports
Group Training Course

On-site study at Imperial Villa Garden Site, Nara city

Bangladesh
Problems and needs for protection and restoration activities for cultural heritage in
Bangladesh
Mohammad Golam Kawsar, Museum Manager
Independence Museum, Branch of Bangladesh National Museum, Division of Ministry of Cultural Affairs

Problems of Cultural Heritage Protection
The Bangladesh Liberation War (Muktijuddho) also known as
the Bangladesh War of Independence, was a revolution andarmed conÀict sparked by the rise of the Bengali nationalist andself-determination movement in what was then East Pakistan
during the 1971 genocide. The Liberation War began after theWest Pakistani military junta lunched Operation Searchlightagainst the people of East Pakistan on the night of 25 March
1971. The war ended on 16 December 1971 after West Pakistan
surrendered and ceded control of the former East Pakistan to theGovernment of Bangladesh. In the Liberation War period, theWest Pakistani military destroyed many cultural heritage sites in
Bangladesh. The two major sources of the problems of cultural
heritage protection for the country have been environmental
factors and political factors. In order to look after the affairs ofculture and heritage of the country, the Government of
Bangladesh has created a separate ministry by the name of the
Ministry of Cultural Affairs.
What is the Need for Cultural Heritage Protection?
Heritage is one of the unique elements of national identity. It is
the foundation upon which the culture of a people is built. The
law helps us de¿ne and categorize heritage and has developed
appropriate mechanisms for heritage protection based on its
particular features. The deliberate destruction of cultural heritage
not only affects the people’s historic identity, but also hampers
efforts at post-conÀict recovery and peace building. Heritage law
has many applications to current issues of sustainable
development, such as climate change and environmental
protection, tourism education, etc. Accordingly, it is important tomake certain to use the law and resources in such a way that
future generations are not impaired. Cultural heritage embodies
the wealth of knowledge and skills that is transmitted through itfrom one generation to the next. Theft, war, civil disorder,

terrorism, neglect and vandalism are human factors contributing
to the accidental or wilful destruction of our heritage.
Cultural Heritage Protection and Restoration Activities
The state’s obligation is clearly inscribed in the constitution of
the country as one of ensuring the equal rights of the people inevery sphere of life.
Article 23 of the constitution says “The State shall adopt
measures to conserve the cultural traditions and heritage of thepeople, and so to foster and improve the national language,
literature and the arts that all sections of the people are afforded
the opportunity to contribute towards and to participate in theenrichment of the national culture.”
Article 24 of the constitution declares “The State shall adopt
measures for the protection against dis¿gurement, damage or
removal of all monuments, objects or places of special artistic or
historic importance or interest.”

Group Training Course (Country Report)

Introduction
Bangladesh is a country in South Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal
to the south and entirely encircled by the Republic of India to thewest, north and east, and by Myanmar to the southeast. It occupies
an area of 147,570 square kilometres. The Bengalis constitute theoverwhelming majority of the population of Bangladesh. They
have been culturally and ethnically such a strong, ¿rm, unyielding
and rock-solid human group that they have emerged as a nation andformed a state of their own. The Bengalis are a relatively
homogenous ethnic group both linguistically and culturally. Theirlanguage, literature, art, music, other accomplishments, customs,
interests, and values make up their culture. Language is the mostdominant element of Bengali culture.

The Government of Bangladesh has classi¿ed heritage into two
broad divisions: cultural heritage and natural heritage. The majortask of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs is to look after the public
cultural institutions in terms of policy, ¿nance and administrationand to help the private cultural institutions ¿nancially as far as
possible. It is extremely important for every cultural institution
to pursue two standards, legal standards and ethical standards,
which constantly interact. Understanding this interaction
provides a realistic framework for effective cultural governance.
The law imposes three obligations on the governing body: care,diligence, and honesty.
Cultural Heritage Protection Organization
Cultural and heritage institutions of Bangladesh, whether public
or private, are non-pro¿t organizations. A public organization iseither a purely government institution or a statutory one. The
protective organization bodies’ functions are listed below.
1.

Bangladesh National Museum: The Bangladesh Jatiya
Jadhughar ordinance No. LIII of 1983 established the
Bangladesh National Museum. The Museum seeks toextend the perception of culture to its widest anthropologicalsense, linking our present day life to man’s creative searchof the material world, both natural and man-made, on the
one hand, while helping visitors discover on the other apurpose that is common to all. The Bangladesh National
Museum and its seven branch museums have catalogued
their collections in accordance with a detailed object

31

rhymes, folksongs, proverbs, riddles, and local dialects.

identi¿cation system. This system has been designed todescribe each of the 106,000 objects making up thecollections. This helps capture vital information relating toeach object, and this information includes the item’sclassi¿cation, date of accession, accession number, name,material used, measurements, distinguishing features,
estimated price, place of origin, acquisition history, physicalcondition, location within the museum, etc.
2.

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3.

Department of Archaeology: The Department ofArchaeology is the premier organization for thearchaeological research, scienti¿c analysis, and excavationof archaeological sites, and for the conservation andpreservation of protected monuments and areas of national
importance, the maintenance of site museums, and theregulation of legislation related to antiquities and treasures,as speci¿ed by the Antiquities Act of 1968 (amended in1976). Its main responsibilities include the maintenance,
conservation and repair of “protected” sites and monuments
all over the country according to the Archaeological Works
Code. Decipherment and study of ancient epigraphic records
including stone inscriptions, copper plates, coins andmanuscripts in Sanskrit, Arabic and Persian are entrusted tothe experts of the Department. The Department also collects
and preserves ethnological objects of tribal peoples andpreserves them in the Ethnological Museum. It Coordinates
the UNESCO mission activities for the restoration andpreservation of our World Heritage sites of the country.
Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (Bangladesh Fine Arts
Academy): This academy was established through an act ofParliament in 1974 as a statutory organization under the
Ministry of Cultural Affairs. But subsequently the Act of1974 of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy was amended
through a new act of Parliament in 1989.

Bangla Academy has established three museums, namely,
the Folk Heritage Museum, the Language Movement
Museum, and the National Literature and Writers Museum.
Amar Ekushe Grantha Mela, the greatest and most attractive
book fair of Bangladesh, is held annually at the behest of
the Bangla Academy.
5.

National Book Centre: The National Book Centre (NBC)executes the goal of UNESCO regarding the disseminationof knowledge through book promotion. It is an autonomous
organization. It launches worldwide programs of bookdevelopment with a view to making systematic and soundpromotion of books within the country.

6.

Bangladesh Folk Arts and Crafts Foundation, Sonargaon,
Narayanganj: This was established on 12 March 1975. The
main tasks of the foundation are to collect traditionalmonuments and folk art and craft elements of Bangladesh, toensure their preservation, to restore them where necessary forthe present and future generations, and to arrange exhibitions.
The foundation has two folk art and craft museums to display
objects of folk culture and handcrafts.

7.

Directorate of Archives and Libraries: The governmentof Bangladesh promulgated the National Archives
Ordinance in 1983 in order to provide for the establishmentof a National Archives and for the collection, preservation,
maintenance and administration of permanent records andarchives of the Government of Bangladesh.

8.

Copyright Of¿ce: The Copyright Act of 2000 (amended in2005) contains, among others, the subject matters of theTrade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights(TRIPS) Agreement with respect to copyrights and related
rights, including those involving computer programmers,
databases, rental rights, cinema, broadcasting rights,
performer’s rights, sound recordings, etc. In 1962 a
copyright ordinance was promulgated, amalgamating thedifferent copyright laws which existed at that time into the
Copyright Ordinance of 1962. Bangladesh has been
cooperating with the World Trade Organization (WTO),
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and
UNESCO for enriching the copyright system.

9.

International Mother Language Institute: The
International Mother Language Institute was established on
21 February 2010 for promoting Bangla language andliterature at home and abroad, making Bangla an of¿cial
language of the United Nations, circulating our Language
Movement history among member countries of UNESCO,and conferring fellowships for language research. The
International Mother Language Institute has a museum of
its own. The museum and the archive act as spearheads for
the International Mother Language Institute.

The duties and responsibilities of the Academy include thepromotion of the arts and national culture and the creationof necessary facilities for their development. The activitiesof the academy also include organizing workshops,
seminars, discussion meetings and short-term courses in
specialized training, and providing scholarships and¿nancial grants for talented artists in the various ¿elds ofthe ¿ne and performing arts.
4.

32

Bangla Academy: Bangla Academy is the national
academy of arts and literature of Bangladesh. Since its
inception on 3 December 1955 Bangla Academy has playeda remarkable and amazing role in the collection, research,translation, compilation and publication of Bengali
language materials, as well as in various activities related tolanguage and literature and for the promotion of Bengali
culture. It has collected a huge corpus of oral traditions.
There are many enthusiastic scholars whose contributions
to folklore research are praiseworthy as is evident fromtheir numerous publications concerning folktales, nursery10. Small Indigenous Group Cultural Academy (Khudra
Nri-Ghosty Cultural Academy), Rangamati: This
Academy was established in 1978 in order to promote,preserve and develop indigenous cultures of the Southern
Hill Tracts region and to bring such activities into themainstream of national culture of Bangladesh.

list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Images of Some Important Culture Heritage (tangible andintangible) in Bangladesh: (Photo source: Internet)

12. Tribal Cultural Academy, Birisiri, Netrokona: This
Academy has been established for ethnic groups such as theGaro, Hajongs, Koch, Banai, Hadi, and Mandai, etc., livingin the northern districts of Bangladesh, for the preservationof each group’s society and their practices of culture andlife style, such as language.

FIGURE 1. Paharpur Buddhist Bihar, built in the 8th century AD

13. Manipuri Lalikala Academy (Fine Art Academy),
Maulavibazar: This Academy has been established for thedevelopment and protection of the culture of the Monipuri
indigenous people.
14. Khudra Nri-Ghosty Cultural Academy, Khagrachhari:This Academy is working to protect the cultural heritage ofsmall indigenous groups of this region.

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11. Cox’s Bazar Shanskritik Kendra (Cox’s Bazar Cultural
Centre), Cox’s Bazar: This Centre was initially established
for the then indigenous Rakhain community. It arranges
seminars, conducts research on the customs and traditionsof different communities of people including the Rakhaincommunity living in the city of Cox’s Bazar. It also
publishes magazines and books for maintaining their origin
cultural heritage which is at risk of being lost.

FIGURE 2. Kantaji Temple, built in the 18th century AD.

15. Rajshahi Bivaghaia Khudra Nri-Ghosty Cultural
Academy, Rajshahi: This Academy is working to protect thecultural heritage of small indigenous groups of this region.
List of Designated Cultural Heritage
The designated cultural heritage assets include antiquities, works
of art, objects of scienti¿c interest, ethological specimens, relicsconnected with the liberation struggle of Bangladesh, traditional
crafts and artefacts, products of intellectual activities, audiovisual documentary items, and other such objects. According to
the Antiquities Act of Bangladesh, an antiquity is an object which
has been in existence for at least one hundred years. Bangladesh
is rich in antiquities, which are both movable and immovable.

FIGURE 3. Traditional art of Jamdani weaving, which has been
inscribed on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

There are more than 100 designated cultural sites. The major
sites are (1) Wari-Batehswar, (2) Mahasthangart, (3) Buddhist
Mahavihara at Paharpur, (4) Mainamati, (5) Sat Gumbad
Mosque, (6) Lalbagh Fort, (7) Kusmba Mosque, (8) Kantaji
Temple, (9) Sonargaon, and (10) Sundarbans.
The World Heritage sites include the Buddhist Mahavihara at
Paharpur, the Sat Gumbad Mosque, and Sundarbans, along with
Baul songs as intangible heritage. The traditional arts of Jamdani
weaving and Shital Pati weaving have also been inscribed on the

FIGURE 4. Traditional art of Shital Pati weaving, which has been
inscribed on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

33

BhutanExperience in the Protection of Heritage Sites
Sonam Tenzin, Cultural Ofﬁcer
Division for Conservation of Heritage, Department of Culture, Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs

Group Training Course (Country Report)

. Initial experience in the ¿eld of protecting heritage sites at
Lhuentse Dzongkhag
I was appointed as the Dzongkhag (District) Cultural Of¿cer in
Lhuentse Dzongkhag, eastern Bhutan, from May 2005 to June
2010. This is the one of 20 districts in the country and is located465 km from Thimphu, capital city of Bhutan. In general, all the
Dzongs (fortresses) in the country house the District
Administration of¿ce and the Rabdey (monastic body). Lhuentse
Dzong houses the same, and serves as the highest decisionmaking body with an elected chairperson from amongst its
members and Gewog Tshogde in the Gewogs (blocks) with theGup (local elected leader) as de facto chairperson. The
Dzongkhag takes pride in being an ancestral home of our Kings,
with the impressive Nagtshang (castle) of Jigme Namgyel (fatherof the ¿rst King of Bhutan) still standing at its original place. It
is also blessed with the visits of holy ¿gures. It is popularly
known as the ultimate destination for Buddhist pilgrims becauseof its important secret places.
Technically, I did not understand the main essence of protectionof heritage sites; rather I was charged with taking the following
major responsibilities.

FIGURE 1. Road map of Thimphu to Lhuentse (Source: Google)

FIGURE 2. Lhuentse Dzong

34

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Implement plans and polices, and coordinate them topromote and preserve culture.
Create an environment conducive to research and learningin the ¿eld of culture.
Promote Driglam Namzha (the of¿cial behaviour and dresscode).
Liaise with Headquarters concerning cultural matters.
Monitor, review and evaluate cultural activities.

As Cultural Of¿cer, the duties of the position extend to thesupervision of all categories of staff in the Dzongkhag.
Accordingly, we are responsible for ensuring that the programs
and plans are implemented ef¿ciently and effectively, so thatroutine services meet the given standards. The position ofCultural Of¿cer is important in maintaining and updating thesocial behaviour of people. The position has to develop new
systems to suit the changes in behaviour. The culture andtradition of the country as preserved in written form can hardly
be supported unless put into practice. Therefore, the quality of
the work of this position has signi¿cant impact on the sociocultural development of the nation. (Figure 3)
However, as I was appointed as the ¿rst candidate to this post, I
did not appreciate that the current economic condition,
demographic statistics and people’s strong sense of attachment
to materialistic goals would cause heritage sites to lose their
popular appeal. Since Bhutan is considered a living culture in theworld, facing a loss in the value of its culture and tradition,
heritage sites were not the highest priority. Further, with therapid modernization and integration of external inÀuences, thepreservation, conservation and protection of heritage sites were
given little consideration. Thus conserving our heritage sites did
not weigh on my mind during that period at Lhuentse Dzongkhag.
However, I arrived at an understanding of the term “conservation”

FIGURE 3. Culture and tradition for receiving the ceremonial chief
guestwhile the plan for Dzong conservation came into the picture,
implemented by the of¿ce of the Division for Conservation of
Heritage Sites, Department of Culture. (Figure 4)
2. Second transfer, to Trashiyangtse Dzongkhag from July2010 – March 2015
The Government has the policy of transferring of¿cials from one
place to another periodically. Having worked in the post of
Cultural Of¿cer for ¿ve years, I was reshufÀed and transferred toanother Dzongkhag, namely Trashi Yangtse. This Dzongkhag islocated to the extreme east, 585 km from the capital city of thecountry. (Figure 5,6)

The main objective of the ¿eld training was to understand the¿eld work of archaeology and to gain diverse interests regarding
the investigation of archaeology sites. We were taught how toinitiate documentation using instruments and techniques for¿nding potential sites. Further, the Division for Conservation of
Heritage Sites conducted a program on the operational
management of sites, archives, handling of the ¿nds and otherrelated aspects of data management. We have been provided
with training on inventory and documentation to understand theissues and challenges during their implementation.

FIGURE 4. Construction of a Drasha (residence of a monk)

FIGURE 5. Road map from Thimphu to Trashiyangtse (Source:
Google)Group Training Course (Country Report)

Although transferred to a new place, the work for which I was
responsible was the same as mentioned above. Under constantguidance from the team of the Division for Conservation of
Heritage Sites (DCHS), of the Department of Culture, Ministryof Home and Cultural Affairs, and in line with the policy of
cultural preservation and promotion, we understood thatlearning, studying, promoting and transmitting Bhutaneseculture and its essence is an obligation for each and every
Bhutanese today. However, due to modernization and a lack ofavailable resources, most builders are opting for more fashionable
designs rather than the valuable and unique traditional one.
While working at Trashiyangtse Dzongkhag, I was given theprivilege by the of¿ce of DCHS to attend an Educational
Workshop on Archaeology in Bhutan, organized by the Division
for the Conservation of Heritage Sites, from 27 March to 1 April
2011. The term “archaeology” was very new for every one of theparticipants as well in Bhutan as a whole, and we did not evenknow what it meant or how it should be implemented. It was likea man with a blindfold walking over a street without knowing thesituation of the street. With this educational workshop, we
gained some understanding of the term “archaeology” andrelated topics including conservation, protection and so on withregard to cultural heritage sites. Subsequently, conservation andprotection of the heritage sites have been intensively carried out.
Nevertheless, due to the lack of knowledge about protecting
heritage sites in the community, these sites are vulnerable andthere are threats especially to heritage sites in the remote villagesof the country. In the same year, the Division for Conservation of
Heritage Sites organized the “Rescue Excavation Training
Program” (Archaeology) from 17 October to 13 November
2011, which gave a better understanding and ¿eld knowledge
about surveying, documenting and mapping sites. (Figure 7)

FIGURE 6. Trashiyangtse Dzong. Photo: Author

FIGURE 7. Participants attending an Educational Workshop
Photo: DCHS

35

Through participation in these workshops, talks, and seminars inthe ¿eld of conservation and protection of heritage sites, theknowledge imparted by the experts, conservators and otherrenowned scholars has helped us become more effective inprotecting heritage sites.

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It has been some years since gaining this understanding of theneed for documentation and registering of heritage sites toprotect them from the threats of economic developmental. Also,
we still have much to learn about the establishment of a data baseand its importance in the Department as well to the ¿eld staff
who work at heritage sites in the Dzongkhags. But in this manner,
the team is becoming sensitized with knowledge about protecting
heritage sites. (Figure 8)

FIGURE 8. Rescue excavation training

3. Third transfer, to the Division of Conservation of Heritage
Sites, Archaeology Section, Department of Culture, April
2015 – present
The knowledge imparted by the experts during my stay in the
Dzongkhags with regards to protecting and safeguarding all theimportant heritage sites really assisted me when I was transferredto the Department. The main responsibility in the of¿ce is tofacilitate the provision of guidance, and to sensitize and promoteawareness in the general public regarding the importance of
heritage sites, cultural landscapes, archaeological sites and otherrelated important sites. The of¿ce has designated nationally
important monuments for restoration and conservation.

FIGURE 9. Conservation project

Knowing of the demolition of heritage sites and the implicationsof this, the Division has coordinated documentation of heritage
sites, cultural landscapes and potential archaeological sites in the
country. The landscape, both rural and urban, is of great importanceas historical background and we can unravel it through observation,
investigation and recording. Nevertheless, the initial step for
documentation is to survey and record the sites in the ¿eld to a
standard which is acceptable to the profession today.
The concept of archaeology has been the focus of national
interest after carrying out the ¿rst ever archaeological project(Drapham Dzong ruin) in Bhutan. Since then, the majority of
Bhutanese citizens have gained no new knowledge regarding thecontent of archaeology. Bhutan, though being a small country,
has a rich culture and environment, with architectural andcultural landscapes and other human materials as heritage whichneeds to be recorded. With the rapid economic development, theview of archaeology in
Bhutan held by some of the developers seems to be as a highly
complicated and time-consuming obstacle to construction.
(Figure 9,10)
Despite these obstacles, the Archaeology section under theDivision for Conservation of Heritage Sites has documented anumber of vulnerable and important archaeological sites overtime, as follows.

36

FIGURE 10. Preservation of old timber component

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Excavation of Drapham ruin, Bumthang District.
Rescue excavation at Sangkha village, Sarpang District.
Documentation and survey of Obtsho Dzong ruin, Gasa
District.
Survey and documentation of Chubjakha Dzong ruin, Paro.
Survey and documentation of Do-choten ruin, Paro.
Survey and documentation of Drukgyel Dzong ruin.
Documentation of the centre tower of the Wangduephodrang
Dzong reconstruction project.

This documentation can serve as inspiration for academic
researchers to enrich our understanding, as well as encouragement
for local people to protect and promote heritage sites by
understanding their value. (Figure 11-17)

4. Issues and challenges
Being given the opportunity to attend this training, implementing
the skills and knowledge gained from the instructors will be very
crucial in the ¿eld, since we are at the early stage of documenting
and surveying the vulnerable heritage and archaeological sites inour country. At the moment, we have surveyed and documented
sites as listed above, however the following are the issues andchallenges for us in managing these sites.
1. Lack of local expertise in the ¿eld of protecting heritage
sites.
2. Lack of technical human resources.
3. Need for ¿nancial assistance.

FIGURE 11. Excavation area 2009, Drapham Dzong

FIGURE 15. Survey and documentation 2016, Dochoten, Paro.
Photo: DCHS

FIGURE 12. Excavation area 2011, Sangkha, Sarpang. Photo: DCHS

FIGURE 16. Survey and documentation 2013, Wangduephodrang.
Photo: DCHS

FIGURE 13. Survey and documentation 2012, Obsho Dzong,Gasa. Photo: DCHS

FIGURE 17. Survey and documentation 2016, Drukgyel Dzong,Paro. Photo: DCHS

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FIGURE 14. Survey and documentation 2013, Chubjakha, Paro.
Photo: DCHS

37

Cambodia
Sambor Prei Kuk World Heritage Site
Khann Mony, Deputy Director
Division of Conservation of Monument, Department of Site, Archaeology and Conservation, National Authority
for Sambor Prei KukGroup Training Course (Country Report)

I. Site Location
The province of Kampong Thom is located in the centre of
Cambodia, 168 km from the capital, Phnom Penh, or about
halfway between Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. It covers 15,061
sq. km, and is bordered by Tonle Sap Lake to the west, and theprovinces of Siem Reap to the northwest, Kampong Cham andKampong Chhnang to the south, Stung Treng to the northeast,
Kratie to the east, and Preah Vihear to the north.
Sambor Prei Kuk is located in the northeast part of Kampong
Thom province, in the commune of Sambor and district of Prasat
Sambor. It is about 30 km from the provincial city of Kampong
Thom, and 180 km from the temples at Angkor in Siem Reap.
The perimeter of the site is situated in the middle of the country.
The Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site is located on the westbank of the Sen River, a tributary of Tonle Sap. West of the riverand near the monuments, a marsh spreads over an area
approximately 2.5 km wide. In addition to the large swamp
called Boeung Chik Kay, the area is entirely covered by paddy.
Further west of the lowland is a plateau approximately 5 mhigher than the lowland. The major structures of the Sambor Prei
Kuk Archaeological Site stand on this plateau. The lowland
generally accommodates ponds

FIGURE 1. Map of Cambodia indicating the province of Kampong
Thom and the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site

II. Site Description
The Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site was introduced toEuropeans at the end of the 19th century by Adhemar Leclere andlater French explorers. Subsequently, several surveys wereconducted by L’Ecole française d’Exteme Orient, establishing
the basic boundaries of the complex and cataloguing many of the38monuments and features. Basic preservation measures, including
the clearing of vegetation from parts of North and South Sites,
was carried out by Conservation d’Angkor in 1927–28, withfurther conservation work and archaeological research conductedduring the period 1958–70.

DATE
ACTIVITIES
1890– Site survey and reports;
1900
establishment of letteredidentification system formonuments
1910– Intensive survey;
1927
architectural and artistic
studies; epigraphic studies
1927– Preservation works including
1928
the clearance of vegetationand soil at the South Groupand part of the North Group,
conducted by Victor
Goloubew and Lucien
Fombertaux of Conservationd'Angkor
1958– Historic preservation work,1970
excavation and mapping
1990s– Ministry of Culture and Fine
ongoing Arts (MCFA) preservationwork
2001– Sambor Prei Kuk
ongoing Conservation Project, a joint
project between MCFA and
Waseda University, Japan
2013– The Sambor Prei Kuk
2014
Archaeological Site
Administrative andConservation Officeestablished to implement the
management plan on atemporary basis
2015
Organization andFunctioning of the National
Authority for the Protection
and Development of Cultural
Site of Sambor Prei Kuk
2015
Organization andFunctioning of the General
Department of the National
Authority for the Protection
and Development of Cultural
Site of Sambor Prei Kuk

REFERENCES
Leclère 1894;
Aymonier 1900;
Lajonquière 1902;
Morand 1904
Finot 1912, 1928;
Parmentier 1927,
1935
Chronique 1927
(pp. 489–492),
1928 (pp. 331–
332)

Groslier 1963;
Rapport C. A.
1908–1973

Sambor Prei Kuk
Conservation
Project (SCP)
Sambor Prei Kuk
Conservation
OfficeRoyal Decree

Sub-DecreeThe Temple Zone of the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site
has been identi¿ed as the religious centre of Ishanapura, thecapital city of the Chenla polity at the beginning of the late 6th toearly 7th centuries CE. The speci¿c boundaries of the Chenla
polity are undetermined, however Vickery (1994, 197–212)
argues that Chenla in the 6th and 7th centuries, or even earlier, waslocated entirely within the boundaries of modern Cambodia;
thus, one cannot avoid the logic that the two parts (Water andLand) into which Chenla allegedly split would also have been
the same area. Apparently with the establishment of Jayavarman
II at Angkor, the Chinese soon stopped referring to “Land” and“Water” Chenla and reverted to simply Chenla, implying that thetwo parts were reunited. Although there is no clear statement tothat effect in the literature, Cœdès says the New T’ang History
still attributes an embassy of 813 to “Water Chenla.” O. W.
Wolters says “Water Chenla” occurs again in the Chinese recordin 838, but he argues cogently that the Chinese misunderstoodCambodian politics, and that the terms “Land” and “Water
Chenla” were geographic, not political divisions, and that bothlay within Cambodia south of the Dangrek Mountains. According
to the textual evidence of Sanskrit and Khmer inscriptions,archaeological investigations and art historical analysis, largescale inhabitation and building of religious monuments at thesite began in the late 6th to early 7th centuries with the constructionof the urban complex (under evaluation at the time of nomination),
its temple precinct, and the landscape features of the site. Prior tothis period, mainland Southeast Asia had been dominated by thecoastal Funan centres of Angkor Borei and Oc Eo. With the
decline of Funan, the centres of power along with their religiousaf¿liations moved inland to the Sambor Prei Kuk ArchaeologicalSite, precipitating key developments in statehood, planning,building, and the plastic arts. As evidenced by the Site andespecially the Temple Zone, Chenla's political and building

structure, religious practices and material culture were important
advances that had a lasting impact on the region. The
developments that took place at the Temple Zone of the Sambor
Prei Kuk Archaeological Site laid the foundations for the later
achievements of the Khmer Empire, most notably the sites on theKulen Plateau, Lavo, and the great cities, monuments andfeatures associated with Roluos, Angkor, Koh Ker, and in later
periods in the Siamese kingdom at Ayutthaya and Sukhothai. It
must be considered that until the beginning of the 14th century
most of Southeast Asia was controlled or at the least administeredby the Khmer Empire, and that together with its religious
monuments (Temple Zone) and practices, the Sambor Prei Kuk
Archaeological Site was the catalyst for the future developmentof that empire, and subsequently others of later periods.
The Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site has been identi¿ed as
Ishanapura, the capital city of the Chenla polity in the beginningof the 7th century CE. Recent ¿eld surveys have documented theremains of this ancient city, including the brick temples and theirembanked causeways, the moat and rampart of the city, andwater works for irrigation and the town’s supply. This ancient
city primarily consisted of three zones: the eastern temple zone,
a satellite temple zone, and the western habitation zone. Several
monument complexes and many brick structures are concentrated
in the Temple Zone of the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site.
However, many other remains were also con¿rmed in thewestern area, where the habitation zone surrounded by a moat is
located. A further satellite temple site is located to the northwithin the nominated property.

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The restoration and investigation of the site was disrupted by theoutbreak of civil war in Cambodia in 1970. During the era ofconÀict in Southeast Asia, the Sambor Prei Kuk ArchaeologicalSite suffered damage from all the hostile forces engaged in the
struggle that spanned almost 30 years (early 1970s–1990s). The
area was the scene of air raids as well as ground conÀict. Bombcraters can be seen, although over time erosion and vegetation
have made them less obvious. During the period of conÀict,efforts at research, maintenance, and protection of the monuments
as well as movable artifacts suffered seriously. Degradation of
the monuments was unchecked, and artifacts were looted. The
number of pieces looted or destroyed can only be estimated.
Very few looted items have been recovered. War damage wasalso inÀicted on several monuments and valuable archaeologicalfeatures. In the early 1990s, the Royal Government of Cambodia
was free of conÀict and re-established control over the area. The
Ministry Culture and Fine Arts (MCFA) as well as otherministries began the arduous task of identi¿cation to protect thisvaluable asset. With little funding, a lack of trained conservation/
restoration and managerial professionals, and a greater focus on
the Angkor area in Siem Reap, the efforts appeared rather small,but in the end their results have been signi¿cant.

The Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site contains numerous
ancient temples and other structures. The number of sites totals
133, many of which are comprised of multiple individual
structures and features. The majority of the features are brickwith sandstone architectural elements such as lintels, door heads,
sills and jambs. There are some laterite and sandstone buildings.
Section 4 of the World Heritage nomination document covers
the present state of conservation and provides additional details
on the state of conservation, while an annex to the nomination
provides a complete description of each of the 133 known
buildings, unexcavated building mounds, and structural features,with hydraulic features excluded.
The Temple Zone to the east of the site contains three main sites:
Prasat Sambor (North Group), Prasat Tao (Central Group) andPrasat Yeay Paon (South Group). Each of these temple sites
contains a central main tower on a raised platform, surroundedby smaller towers and other structures. Each temple complex issurrounded by two concentric brick and/or laterite walls; Prasat
Sambor was recently discovered to have a third, much larger
enclosure. The complexes are oriented on an east–west axis,
with two causeways linking the Temple Zone to the river east of
the site. Two additional complexes, Prasat Srei Krup Leak andPrasat Robang Romeas, are located at the north end of the site.
Additional temples, structures, and features are located outsideof the main complexes in the Temple Zone, and throughout the39

moated city area. Most of these temples are individual buildings,
though Prasat Tamom, located within the city zone, has several
ancillary structures and water features.

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The buildings contain an impressive array of decorative elements
carved in brick and sandstone. The brick artwork is integrated
into the 7th century buildings and structures. Many of the bricktemples have multiple carvings on their external walls, including
friezes with geometric and stylized Àoral and animal designs aswell as “Àying palace” motifs. Each Àying palace motif depicts
the residence of a god or king, kept aloft by winged animal andhuman ¿gures. The site also contains a series of brick-relief
medallions depicting mythical scenes, including an engraved
medallion on the outer wall of Prasat Yeay Poan (South Group)
depicting the mythical event of the goddess Durga ¿ghting thedemon Mahishasura. These medallions are unique to the site; no

DATE

POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS
ACTIVITIES
PRE-ANGKOR (“CHENLA”) PERIOD
c. 550–600
Capital of Bhavavarman I established at ornear the Sambor Prei Kuk ArchaeologicalSite
600–616Mahendravarman takes over his brother's
realm and capital
616–637
Ishanavarman I establishes his capital
Ishanapura at Sambor Prei Kuk
Archaeological Site
Ishanavarman I sends embassy to court in
China
639–655
Bhavavarman II reigns, maintaining
Sambor Prei Kuk as capital
657–681
Jayavarman I moves capital from Sambor
Prei Kuk to Purandarapura in Angkor
regionANGKOR PERIOD (802–1431)
Jayavarman II
802–850

similar carvings have been found at other Khmer sites.
The sandstone elements include lintels, statues, pedestals,
colonnettes, and pediments. Some are carved in the distinctive
7th-century Sambor Prei Kuk Style and others represent Angkor
period styles. The Sambor Prei Kuk style is the earliest known
consolidation of the Khmer artistic style and includes importantearly masterpieces of Khmer art. These include ornate lintels
characterized by intricate elements such as jeweled garlands,
makaras, and medallions, as well as statues of Durga, Harihara
and Brahma, and the distinctive mandapa (antechamber in frontof a main sanctuary) at Prasat S2, and the Asram Moha Russei
temple (N17). Later artistic elements include the well-preserved
lintels, colonnettes and lion statues of Prasat Tao which exhibit
the transition between the pre-Angkor and Angkor styles. Manyof the sandstone elements remain in situ, and several have been

CONSTRUCTION
ACTIVITIESREFERENCES

Earliest possible date forconstruction of Prasat Sambor

Jacques 2004;
Vickery 1998b

Prasat Yeay Poan constructed;
latest possible date for constructionof Prasat Sambor; carving of basrelief medallions

Jacques 2004;
Vickery 1998b

616–617

944–968(r. 1002–
1050)

Under Rajendravarman, a successful
campaign against the Champa wasundertaken; the campaign leader,
Sinhavikrama re-established the cult ofGambhiresvara at the Northern Complex ofSambor Prei Kuk
Suryavarman I

POST ANGKOR PERIOD
c. 14th–15th
centuries

40c. 16th–17th
centuries

Installation of Buddhist statues at Sambor
Prei Kuk

Modern era

Establishment of Neak Ta ceremonies andother worship practices at Sambor Prei
Kuk

Earliest possible date forconstruction of Central Group
Vickery 1998b (pp.
350–356); Jacques
2004 (p. 139)
Latest possible date forconstruction of Central Group
Renovation of Prasat Sambor

Additional renovation andconstruction activities

Construction of Wat Mahor near
Sambor Prei KukCœdès 1952;
Shimoda &Nakagawa 2008

removed for safekeeping. One lintel of the Sambor Prei Kukstyle, housed in the National Museum in Phnom Penh, depicts
early Khmer musical instruments; however its provenance isunknown.

During the period of the construction of the late 6th to early 7th
century temples of the Temple Zone of the Sambor Prei Kuk
Archaeological Site, distinctive features with ¿red brick as theprinciple construction medium began to develop, such that the
tower design of previous periods borrowed from India became
slenderer, bricks were sculptured, a stucco ¿nish applied to thesurface, and bricks were adhesively bonded to form smooth
inner and outer surfaces.

FIGURE 2. Archaeological sites of Sambor Prei Kuk (source: SCP)

FIGURE 3. Map of the three main groups at Sambor Prei Kuk

II. Architectural Diversi¿cation
Hindu temples were a prototype to an extent for the Khmer
architects of Ishanapura. During the Gupta period of northern
India (320–550 CE), in which the reign of Chandragupta (II)Vikramaditya (375–415 CE) was the high point of the period andGroup Training Course (Country Report)

A total of 23 inscriptions have been found, mostly located within
the door jambs of the temples and other structures. The
inscriptions are in Sanskrit and Khmer, and date to the 7th, 10thand 11th centuries during the reigns of kings Ishanavarman I (r.
616–637), Bhavavarman II (r. 637–657), Rajendravarman (r.
944–968), and Suryavarman I (r.1002–1050). These inscriptions
constitute an important part of the historical record of the site,detailing dates of temple activities, names of kings and otherpersonages, and details of the religious and political life of thecity.

probably most inÀuential, temples were basically an enclosed
rectangular hall with a multi-tiered roof or square hall withpillared porch and Àat roof. As architecture and the arts
progressed during the period the decorations became moreelaborate, and the roof was multiplied by additional false stories
diminishing in size, but not decoration, upwards in a pyramidal
shape. Platforms and terraces were added, wall space wascovered with a multitude of relief carvings, and statues wereplaced in niches, on pedestals and beside doorways (Mabbett,Chandler 1995, 184–186). This set the stage for Khmer
construction design, keeping in mind that much of the Indian
construct was of stone. Groves quotes the archaeologist Charles
Higham who said “Many uninformed guesses were subsequently
offered as to the nature of the monuments and their origin,virtually none of which give credit to the Cambodian [Khmer]
people.”Few monuments where there are detectable architectural traits
were built to the exact same template. The construction in brickwith sandstone accoutrements was restricted only by the limits
derived from the foundation, construction materials,
craftsmanship, and architectural design. There is a minimum offour basic ground plans, two different roof plans, three variationsof projections, seven variations of entrance plans, three variations
in step plans, and three variations in corbelling currently
identi¿ed. It is also very prevalent among the basic ground plans
to be variations in the size of the interior space and the thicknessof the walls. These variations would indicate that although abasic design was utilized, it was the responsibility of the architect
and the builders to execute without the aid of a speci¿c template
although Hindu texts on the arts (shilpa shastras) may haveprovided indirectly the source of the architectural design concept.
The four basic ground plan designs are square, rectangular,
equilateral octagonal (all sides equal in length with equalintersecting angles), and octagonal (a polygon with eight sides ofdifferent lengths). There can be monuments with no projections
while others have either a front projection or four side projections.
The con¿guration of the entrance and placement of doors wasfound to have at least seven variations. Entrance steps are foundin three variations while there are three variations in corbelling:
linear, step, and refraction. The porches that can be applied areeither high tier or low tier. As pointed out, diversi¿cation of
Khmer brick structures disappeared by the 9th century with theadvent of the Angkor period. (Figure 4)41

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IV. Intangible Heritage
Certainly, today, the Temple Zone of The Sambor Prei Kuk
Archaeological Site is regarded as having strong religious value.
Local communities regard Prasat Sambor as the home of a NeakTa (powerful ancestral spirit), who is worshipped in daily rituals
and two annual festivals. Currently eight Neak Ta wooden
shrines share space within the Temple Zone. Many more arescattered throughout the site. These festivals contain several
elements not practiced elsewhere in Cambodia, including thecreation of unique ritual objects and the use of powder from thestones of the ancient causeway to bless worshippers with thepower of the Neak Ta. The age of these ritual practices is
unknown, but markings on the stones caused by rubbing havebeen found during excavations, suggesting that the ceremonies
may have historical roots. Most of the accessible temple shrines
continue to be used as places of worship by both local villagers
and visitors to the site. (Figure 5,6)
V. Sambor Prei Kuk Protection Zones
The Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Group is strongly protectedby the Royal Decree (Preah Reach Kret) NS/RKT/1214/1488
dated 24 December 2014, and by Cambodian heritage legislation.
The Sambor Prei Kuk Conservation and Development
Community, established in 2004, has played a major role in thesustainable conservation and development of the cultural
heritage and community. The site is managed according to theSambor Prei Kuk Comprehensive Cultural Heritage Conservation
Management Plan by the Sambor Prei Kuk ArchaeologicalGroup of the Ancient Ishanapura Authority which provides arobust framework for the ongoing conservation, preservation,
restoration, revitalization and general management of the site,
and the interpretation of its heritage values to visitors.
15 August, 2015 (Royal Degree): Creation of Sambor Prei Kuk
National Authority, the Authority for protection and managementof Sombor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site. This decree declares
the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site to be a protected
property as an archaeological and cultural heritage site. Threeareas are designated, including a buffer area as well as a satellitearea for economic and social development.
In Article 4 of this Royal Decree, Sambor Prei Kuk shall be
divided into 3 areas which shall be afforded different degrees ofprotection, as follows.

FIGURE 5. Plowing ceremony

FIGURE 4. Ground plans and basic designs (Source: SCP)

42

FIGURE 6. Neak Ta ceremony (ancestor ceremony)

The landscape design was carefully crafted and engineered to theneeds of this large capital with the simultaneous operation of
three hydraulic systems to manage and control the water Àow,providing a continuous water supply throughout the year.
Criteria (iii): The civilization of Ancient Ishanapura received
deep inÀuence from the Indian subcontinent in the form of its
social institutions, religion and art, which were assimilated into
indigenous customs and ideology, producing artistic expressionsof the empire as a centralized state featuring tolerant cults
focusing on Prahasitesvara, Gambhiresvara, Harihara and
Sakabramana as well as the Buddhist religion, and having alasting impact on Southeast Asian society. The religious complex
was largest pilgrimage centre in Southeast Asia. While all thatremains architecturally of that civilization are its brick and stone
structures, its spiritualism and language still live on.
Criteria (vi): In Sambor Prei Kuk, we see the ¿rst of¿cial
introduction of the Harihara and Sakabramana cults, both
striving for the universal values of tolerance and peace. The site
also harbored the ¿rst inscription in Southeast Asia referring to
the universal teaching of Buddhism. Inscriptions also make use
for the ¿rst time of the Khmer language next to Sanskrit inreferring to its centralized system of rule, and the introduction of
the god-king concept, which would remain central in Cambodia
society until the beginning of the 20th century.
The bas relief of a lintel show us one of the ¿rst representationsof an orchestra and musical instruments, of critical importancefor the universal study of ancient and contemporary music.
Ancient Ishanapura thus embraced a language, religious ideas
and concepts of governance of universal signi¿cance. Recently
Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological World Heritage Site is
managed by the National Authority for Sambor Prei Kuk under
the Ministry Culture and Fine Arts Cambodia.

FIGURE 7. Protection zone of the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Site

VI. World Heritage Criteria
The 41st World Heritage Committee adopted Decision 41 COM
8B.15 for the Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk, ArchaeologicalSite of Ancient Ishanapura (Cambodia) Inscription, on July 8, 2017
in Krakow, Poland, based on criteria (ii), (iii), and (vi). The Sambor
Prei Kuk Archaeological Site Representing the Cultural Landscapeof Ancient Ishanapura is accordingly designated as World Heritage
under criteria (ii), (iii), and (vi), for the following reasons.
Criteria (ii): The Temple Zone of the Sambor Prei Kuk
Archaeological Site and Cultural Landscape of Ancient
Ishanapura has a unique architecture and town planning, which
is a distinct adaptation of Indian inÀuence, introducing for the¿rst time the octagonal building and translating itself in new
aesthetic forms, such as the Àying palaces and medallions,carved on the brick walls or temples and enclosures, stone lintels
and sculptures currently known as the “Sambor Prei Kuk Style.”

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Core zone: This area is the most signi¿cant, which receives thehighest level of protection. It contains the temple groups, alongwith archaeological artifacts, features, ponds, and open spacethat are effectively de¿ned as the Sambor Prei Kuk ArchaeologicalSite. The initial zoning was by Royal Decree (Preah Reach Kret)
NS/RKM/0303/116 dated 11 March 2003. The property wasde¿ned based on the extent currently known in 2003, of each of
the three areas in terms of the cultural heritage content, and did
not follow the arti¿cial boundaries formed by roads, canals,
rivers, property ownership demarcation lines, or administrative
arrangements. These three areas cover 381.11 hectares.
Buffer zone: This area covers the cultural and physicallandscapes surrounding the temple site. It includes potential
archaeological sites containing traces of artifacts. This area must
be protected against inappropriate use of land and development.
This area is a total of 2,982.45 hectares.
Satellite zone: This is an economic and social development area
designated for the preservation of the traditional lifestyle,occupation, and livelihood of the people in this area. This area issubject to preservation of cultural heritage and nature throughmeasures to promote sustainable development and throughenvironmental impact assessments. This area is situated 1,500
km outside the lines formed by the buffer zone.

VII. Conclusion
The monuments at the Sambor Prei Kuk Archaeological Group
display a unique diversi¿cation of architectural ground plans andcon¿gurations that cannot be attributed to cultural exchanges
directly but only indirectly from India, possibly via the earlier
Indian-inÀuenced structures in Funan or later visits, for trade anddiplomacy, prior to the late 6th to early 7th centuries. Moreover,
Sambor Prei Kuk has been occupied since the 6th century until
today with some modi¿cation in religious ideology, inÀuencing
the plans of architectural additions and areal extensions. The
whole site of Sambor Prei Kuk contains a very unique art andarchitectural arrangement which is considered as having
universal value. The buildings that are in a good to moderatestate of preservation contain an impressive array of decorative
elements carved in brick and sandstone. The brick artwork is
integrated into the late 6th–early 7th century buildings andstructures. Many of the brick temples have multiple carvings ontheir external walls, including friezes with geometric or stylizedÀoral and animal designs, as well as the “Àying palace” motif.
Today, Sambor Prei Kuk is regarded as one of the religious andcultural centres of Cambodia in which parts of ancient tradition
still survive in the local people’s lifestyle.

43

ChinaProblems and Needs for Archaeological Site Protection and Preservation in China
Li Mengjing, Project Leader
Studio Two, Beijing Guo Wen Yan Cultural Heritage Conservation Centre Co.Ltd.

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1. Introduction
In China, the protection of cultural heritage is a national
undertaking. According to the Law of the Peoples Republic ofChina on Protection of Cultural Relics, “All cultural relics
remaining underground or in the inland waters or territorial seas
within the boundaries of the People's Republic of China shall beowned by the state.” While legitimate ownership of memorialbuildings, ancient architectural structures and cultural relics
which belong to collectives or individuals is protected by state
laws, archaeological sites are all owned by the state.
The state administration of cultural heritage (SACH) takes
charge of the work concerning cultural relics throughout thecountry. Local governments at various levels take theresponsibility of protecting the cultural relics in their areas.
Usually there is an of¿ce in charge of cultural heritage
administration in each government. The expenses for theprotection and management of cultural relics are listed in thebudgets of the central and local governments. The stateencourages the establishment of cultural relics protection funds
through donations.

Level
National Key
Cultural Relics
Protection Unit

Designated by the State
Administration of Cultural
Heritage and announced by theState Council

Provincial Key
Cultural Relics
Protection Unit

Announced by the governments ofprovinces or autonomous regions

City or County
Key Cultural
Relics Protection
Unit

Verified and announced by thegovernments of cities divided into
districts, of autonomous
prefectures and of counties

Other

Cultural relics with no protectionlevel announced by governments
to dateTABLE 1. Levels of immovable cultural relics

15

When dealing with speci¿c problems, the of¿ce of cultural
heritage administration in each local government hires
institutions with relevant expertise to serve as consultant. The
general procedure is that the management of¿ce applies to thesuperior department and local government for approval andfunding to set up a speci¿c project. Then the professional
institution composes the conservation plan or engineering
project plan.
According to the type and level of protection for each example ofcultural heritage, the professional institution must have therequisite quali¿cations. There are different management
standards for the different levels of cultural heritage. The
National Key Cultural Relics designation is the highest level.

18

102

28
388
1880

Archaeological sites
Ancient tombs
Traditional architecture
Cave temples and stone carvings
Modern and contemporary significant monuments
OthersFIGURE 1. Categories and quantities of National Key Cultural
Relics Protection Units(source: SACH website)

44

The administrative of¿ces, professional institutions, and researchers
from universities have been working on the study, conservation,and management of cultural heritage for decades. Constant
explorations have been made in the technical ¿eld of earthen site
protection. New methods are applied to protect and monitor
archaeological sites. I have worked on different projects, and ineach project we worked with experts in different ¿elds, carryingout interesting work, discovering new problems, and ¿nding proper
solutions. I believe that in the future, we can ¿nd more and better
protection and management methods at the technical level.

national key cultural relics protection units, of which 1,415 arearchaeological sites. Even with additional cultural relics
protection units at the provincial, municipal, and district levels,
this still means that many archaeological sites have not beenprotected in timely fashion.
Even if listed in the national key protection system, there are still
problems to be solved for archaeological sites.
One of the most unique characteristics of archaeological sites istheir uncertainty. There will always be undiscovered areas andnew discoveries that can change received knowledge. To apply
for national key protection status, the cultural heritage site must
be well de¿ned as the object for protection, with lines drawn as
the borders of the protection and construction control areas.
Once such lines are established, they will be valid for a longtime. Accordingly, if there are new discoveries outside theprotection area, they are likely to be damaged, especially forlarge-scale sites in urban areas.

There are some problems for archaeological site protection andpreservation that I have observed while working. I found themdif¿cult to solve and I would love to learn new approaches tothem from this training course.
2. The de¿nition of cultural heritage
As stated above, funds for protection expenses are fromgovernment ¿nancial allocations. Only the archaeological sites
listed in the national protection system can get prompt andsuf¿cient protection. As China is a country with a long history
and a vast amount of land, it usually takes a long time for a site
to be listed. (New discoveries with breaking archaeologicalvalue will be protected immediately.)Group Training Course (Country Report)

Archaeological sites comprise the main part of the Cultural
Relics Protection Unit. To better protect those sites having great
importance and covering vast amounts of land, SACH announced
a list of “large-scale archaeological sites (serial sites).” The state
government will be more supportive of the conservation andmanagement of listed sites. The list alters every ¿ve years
through assessment, along with the state’s ¿ve-year plan. There
are six “large-scale archaeological sites of concentrated area”(Xi’an, Luoyang, Jingzhou, Zhengzhou, Chengdu, and Qufu). A
total of 67 national archaeological site parks are to be built and36 national archaeological site parks are already open to the
public. Certain criteria and management norms are set for largescale archaeological sites and national archaeological site parks.

FIGURE 3. Speciﬁcation for the conservation planning of a largescale archaeological site

According to the latest national cultural relics census there are766,722 heritage sites registered, and among them 332,740 arearchaeological sites. The state council has announced 4,296

FIGURE 2. Speciﬁcation for the conservation planning of a largescale archaeological site

FIGURE 4. Jinsha site information and protection area

45

The Jinsha site, located in downtown Chengdu city, is one of themost famous archaeological sites in China. It represents the Shu
civilization in ancient literature that had long been regarded aslegend. When ¿rst excavated (1995–2003), it was known as asacri¿cial area along the river, where many beautiful alien crafts
were unearthed. Faced with pressures for urban development
and expansion, the Chengdu government drew up the ¿rst editionof a conservation plan (announced in 2004), de¿ning thesacri¿cial remains as the object for protection with a focus on theprotection of sacri¿cial pits.

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As archaeological excavation and research progressed, new sites
were discovered, changing the initial picture. Jinsha turned out
to be the capital city of ancient Shu, with the sacri¿cial andpalace areas located on different sides of the river bank.
Dwellings and cemeteries were scattered around these areas.
Many of the new discoveries outside the protection area weredestroyed by urban development.
Currently the Jinsha site museum is trying to protect the integrityof the site through a conservation plan revision that will include
rede¿ning the object of protection and drawing new boundaries
for protection and construction control. The new version de¿nes
the Jinsha site as an ancient city, making provision for new
discoveries and trying to involve community participation in thesite management.
3. Routine maintenance
The personnel of basic level site management of¿ces are mainly
engaged in administrative work. Professionals in archaeology
and site conservation are in short supply. Only some of the very
important sites (listed large-scale archaeological sites or nationalarchaeological site parks) or sites in provinces with richexperience in protection have sound staf¿ng. Concerningtechnical issues, the management of¿ces prefer to engage inengineering projects rather than conduct daily routine
maintenance, because those projects seem to be more effective
and are carried out by professional institutions. By contrast, thework of project review is demanding, nonurgent, and minor
deterioration usually cannot get funding. This leads to a lack ofroutine maintenance work in most cases.
Uni¿ed job training is not suf¿cient to equip the staff to discoverand deal with hidden dangers scienti¿cally. Even if the conservation

FIGURE 5. The site remains under plastic sheeting46

plan includes a daily maintenance and monitoring program, whenfacing a change in the site’s status, the basic level management
staff are poorly prepared to make necessary adjustments.
In one of our projects, the conservation plan and conservation
projects were still undetermined after excavation, and the local
management of¿ce did not know what to do next to preserve thesite. They used plastic sheeting to cover the remains and replaced
the sheets regularly. This kind of method is applied at many sites
in China as a temporary protection measure. But the temperaturein this area changes drastically between day and night, causing
the humidity to change rapidly under the plastic sheets. The
protection effect was not very good.
4. Presentation and interpretation of sites
It is very dif¿cult to interpret archaeological sites properly to a
public audience. Archaeological sites in China are mainly
earthen sites, which are more dif¿cult to present to the public. At
present, there are certain methods for site presentation generally
applied in China. These methods are quite similar, making mostsites look like each other.
China has a long history of studying its own historic record.
Most visitors view archaeological sites in the way that ancientscholars would visit a historic spot. They tend to relate the site tofamous people, famous events, or even to a poet, neglecting thevalue and scienti¿c information of the remains. At manyarchaeological sites the preference is for telling such stories tothe audience, rather than interpreting the archaeologicalinformation, thus making the site more like a theme museum.
Audiences leave the site still having no idea of what archaeology
really is. How to convey archaeological information morescienti¿cally to the public is a problem worth discussing. Whenthe public understands archaeological sites, they can better takepart in heritage management.
5. Community and public
Since the protection of cultural relics is carried out mainly by thegovernment, the public participates very little in the protection ofcultural heritage. But there are many people in China who love
cultural heritage and pay attention to matters of its protection.
They have established some NGOs that conduct mapping andsurveying of the domestic cultural heritage. The NGOs mostly
take part in helping to promote cultural heritage and supervise
the government’s actions related to it. However, they hardly takeany part in the management of heritage, especially the
management of archaeological sites. Many “public archaeology”
activities have been held in China recent years. Most of theactivities have focused on teenage education.
Public participation is very important for the protection ofarchaeological sites, for providing knowledge of and support forsite protection and complementing the routine maintenance.
Social capital participates in the protection of archaeologicalsites under the guidance of administrative departments, andprofessional institutions can also bene¿t the sites.

Fiji
Drawbacks and needs for the Fiji Museum in the protection and restoration ofcultural heritage sites
Mereoni Camailakeba, Field Research Ofﬁcer

Archaeology and Gazetting Section, Fiji Museum

Fiji is rich in terms of its intangible and tangible cultural heritage
features. The two forms are intertwined. There exist moreintangible cultural features as compared to the tangible ones.
And with tangible heritage, the intangible aspect is very much
implicit. For Fiji, the effort towards the protection and restorationof cultural sites is a priority of the government. With this, theinscription of the old capital of Fiji, Levuka, as a UNESCOWorld Heritage site in 2013 has contributed enormously to theawareness of cultural heritage in Fiji.
Efforts by the Fiji Museum towards the protection and restorationof cultural heritage sites in Fiji are faced with many issues that
range from the lack of public knowledge and awareness to thedevelopment of infrastructure, and land development as well. In
the midst of these issues, while relevant legislation has been inplace, it is too out of date to facilitate effectively the protection
and restoration of cultural sites. The main legislation directly
relating to the identi¿cation, research and protection of cultural
heritage in Fiji is the Preservation of Objects of Archaeologicaland Paleontological Interest (POAPI) Act – Cap 264 (1946).
The Fiji Museum is a statutory body that is governed by the
Preservation of Objects of Archaeological and PaleontologicalInterest Act and the Fiji Museum Act. The Archaeology Sectionof the Fiji Museum utilizes the Act in all its operations with theaim of identifying, protecting and preserving archaeological andcultural heritage sites for the current and future generations.
There are other pieces of legislation in place that ensure theprotection of cultural heritage sites from major development

processes, and these include the following.
(a) National Trust of Fiji Act and its amendment. Thisaddresses the protection and management of cultural andnatural heritage alike.
(b) Environment Management Act-2005. This is administeredby the Department of Environment under the Ministry of
Local Government, Urban Development, Housing andEnvironment.
(c) Mining Act-1978. This is administered by the Mineral
Resources Department, Ministry of Lands and Mineral
Resources.
(d) Town Planning Act-1978. This is administered by the
Department of Town and Country Planning, Ministry of
Local Government, Urban Development, Housing andEnvironment.
(e) iTaukei Lands Trust Act-rev 2006. This is administeredby the iTaukei Lands Trust Board.

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1. ABSTRACT
Cultural heritage has been recognised to be intrinsic, economicaland environmentally valuable; however the challenge is that it iscontinuously under pressure from a range of processes andimpacts. The threats to it have been acknowledged by the global
community, national governments and local people alike. Fiji is anation with a rich history and cultural heritage and there exist
many cultural remnants throughout the country that are still
undiscovered or unexcavated. Fiji’s history goes back as far as
3,000 years ago during the Lapita era. According to our oral
traditions, Fiji was settled before this and our ancestors had comethrough a different route as compared to the widely known andwell documented linguistic and socio-cultural evidence. In theeras that followed, coupled with the Lapita migration, Fiji was asite traversed by different migrations often following a southerly
coastal route. Various cultural forms and traditions integrated
with the existing matrix, resulting in that which is evident today.

2. DRAWBACKS TO THE WORK OF THE FIJI MUSEUM
Out-of-date Fiji Museum Legislation. A major drawback has
been the ongoing implementation of the POAPI Act. Given theact was passed in the 1940s, many of its provisions are poorly
suited to current conditions, especially the penalties as comparedto the severity of penalties in other acts, such as the destructionof a cultural site which will incur only a 200 ¿ne on the part ofthe individual penalised.
Implementation of the POAPI Act. The implementation of the
Act requires appropriate resources including the provision ofthorough legal advice to the museum by a legal practitioner
whose expertise extends to matters of cultural knowledge,archaeological principles and heritage ideals. Sound knowledge
in these areas would greatly assist the Fiji Museum in ful¿lling
its function and also help deter those who wish to cause
destruction.
Lack of proper equipment, hardware and software. The Fiji
Museum lacks proper equipment to enable the technical staff tocarry out their functions. Areas of de¿ciency include GIS
equipment, appropriate software, a server fully suited for storing
all information, digital cameras, proper hardware and software.
Limited Staf¿ng. The limited staff of the Fiji Museum has
reduced its capability to implement a fully-Àedged ¿eld survey
and site assessment. Requests from communities for mapping of
their sites continue to increase annually.

47

Standard setting of fees. A thorough consultation on fees
charged to users of our services needs to be addressed. According
to practice in the past, which is still being followed, fees were
imposed on an ad-hoc basis, benchmarked on advice given by
the government. This is pursued today even though the museum
is a statutory body.

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3. CASE STUDY: Kaba Site disturbances, collaboration
with the Fiji Roads Authority
Development greatly impacts our cultural heritage, and therefore
the process should be inclusive. As landowners and indigenous
people, protection of our heritage places is a basic cultural rightaccording to the Nara Document on Authenticity which de¿nes
the value of heritage property or site as deriving not from external
assessment, but through a process of stakeholder consensus(1994). In Fiji, Cap 264: the Preservation of Objects ofArchaeological and Paleontological Interest Act, which isadministered by the Fiji Museum, plays a signi¿cant role in thepreservation and protection of cultural sites.
Amongst the many development plans of the Fiji Government in
its efforts to reach out and assist rural communities, theconstruction and upgrading of roads around the country is animmediate goal. Currently, the Fiji Roads Authority isconstructing and connecting road networks from the existingKiuva road to Kaba point. In the process, excavators unearthed amassive shell midden of Anadara shell, or kaikoso as it is called
locally.
The Fiji Museum was commissioned to inspect and assess thediscovery of the shell deposit that was unearthed by construction
contractors while excavating the new road to connect Kaba point
to the existing Kiuva road network. The Kiuva-Kaba road projectis situated in the south of Tailevu Province, with Daku, Waicoka,
Kiuva and Anitioki as the closest villages to the project area. The
vanua (traditional home area) of Kaba and the yavusa (clan) of
Naitodua consists of two villages, Vatani village facing the northand Dromuna village at the point. The two villages are almost
350 meters apart. Both villages have their traditional role andcommitment to the vanua.
The history of the people of Kaba states that they were called
rebel fortress because no army was able to defeat them (Derrick,

FIGURE 1. Google Image of Fiji Islands showing the study area

481945). In August 1853, Cakobau led a Àotilla of war canoes anda large force against Kaba, but whether because of treachery or
stout resistance, he accomplished nothing. His warriors brokeand Àed and he was forced to retreat leaving several of his
principal men dead on the beach. Kaba was well forti¿ed, andcrowded with warriors from Rewa, nevertheless, Waterhouse(1975) says, it would have been taken but for the treachery ofsome of Cakobau’s men who alarmed their comrades and Àed,leaving some of the Bau chiefs unsupported. Cakobau was notable to defeat Kaba. Cakobau suffered a serious reverse at Kaba
because Qaranio was pouring warriors into Kaba andstrengthened its defences and they were impregnable (Derrick,1945). Today the people of Kaba treasure these stories but there
are only a few people who know about the story, and thisunderscores the fear of losing these historical events of whichtoday’s younger generation may be ignorant.
The vanua of Kaba is rich with cultural heritage, both intangible
and tangible, thus the assessment created a good platform andrelations for the collection of oral narratives and for documenting
the signi¿cant cultural values and aesthetics of the vanua.
Development is a positive step towards community growth andwith the construction of the new road, the villagers of Kaba will
have better opportunities for health, education, social bene¿ts
and other services. However, stakeholder collaboration during
the initial stages of the Environment Impact Assessment ispreferable as far as cultural heritage values are concerned, toidentify areas of cultural signi¿cance. A cultural heritage site ispart of the identity of a group of people, unique and irreplaceable
if destroyed.
In this case study, the report gave the assessment of the shell
deposits and recommendations. In addition to the assessment of
the required site, the Fiji Museum team carried out a survey ofpossible cultural heritage sites along the infrastructure alignment.
There were sites that were identi¿ed, recorded, and demarcated.
Following the assessment conducted by the Fiji Museum Team,the following conditions at the site were observed andascertained. The initial disturbance to the cultural heritage site
probably occurred during the ¿rst attempt to construct the roadfrom Kiuva to Kaba (the year unknown), which destroyed thenorthwestern portion of the forti¿cation ring ditch, and the roadexcavation work was not deep enough to expose the shell
deposits. The current road excavation was working on thealready disturbed portion of the cultural heritage site, andultimately unearthed the shell midden. This shell deposit mostprobably was on the outskirts of the site, as a rubbish dump.
Some shell middens are the remains of food-processing activities:
areas where aquatic resources were processed directly after
harvest and prior to use or storage at a distant location and areassociated with past human occupation. These shells arenormally taken in for radiocarbon dating to date an archaeologicalsite. In this case, the Fiji Museum has a rough idea on how old
the site is based on accounts by missionaries. (Figure 2)

There is evidence of shell deposits in the wall of the road cut, andthere is also evidence of pottery sherds of both plain anddecorated wares. Shells described by the team are two species of
kaikoso (Anadara and Gafarium) and oysters. The size of theshell midden in thickness ranges from a height of about 8–10
meters above the road. (Figure 3,4,5)

A third need is for capacity building. Due to the rise in requests
from individuals, local communities, government and nongovernment agencies, and with the Fiji Museum lacking
ef¿ecient and experienced staff, the need for capacity building is
extremely important as the Fiji Museum maintains the groundwork for the implementation of legislative protection,
preservation and restoration of cultural sites around the country.
(Figure 6,7,8)

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4. The Fiji Museum’s major needs for the protection andrestoration of cultural sites
The development of cultural heritage protection and restorations
mechanisms. This is where the Fiji Museum can work together
with the communities and developers on ways we want topreserve cultural heritage sites by following proper procedures
certi¿ed through UNESCO and other institutions for theprotection and restoration of cultural heritage sites.

Another need is for increased and inclusive community
awareness programs for the Archaeology and Gazetting section,
so there is no ignorance or lack of interest on the part of the
public in the protection and restoration of cultural sites.

FIGURE 2. Vatani Village headman, Watisoni Bole, standing at theshell midden site of Naikolasei

FIGURE 3. Decorated pottery sherd found at FIGURE 4. Decorated pottery sherd found at FIGURE 5. The defensive ditch. The yellow
the sitethe siteline illustrates the change in the topographyof the landscape

FIGURE 6. Proposed plan for preservation and FIGURE 7. Creating an awareness program FIGURE 8. Creating an awareness program
restoration of a cultural site, Yasawa, on Yaqeta for students in the primary and secondary for communities while attending to theirisland. (Credit: Mr. Rob Kuster, investor from the school levels
requests
Netherlands)

49

IndiaHands that Rock: An Insight into the Documentation of Rock Art by IGNCA
Kisha Shanker, Researcher
Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology Department, Gurukula Kangri University

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According to an ancient Indian text, Vishnudharmottara Purana(3rd Khanda), the practice of painting is the chief of all arts inthis world. Rock art is one of our greatest surviving art treasures.
It possesses the largest body of evidence of artistic, cognitiveand cultural beginnings of humans. It plays a vital role in the
study of human beliefs and practices of past people. In fact, it isa global phenomenon through the ages. The art continues even atpresent. It is widely considered that rock art represents andcommunicates certain ritualistic ideas on a global platform. It istherefore a vital source of information for our understanding ofsome aspects of past human beings unknowable from othersources. It consists of paintings, drawings, engravings, stencils,
prints, bas-relief carvings and ¿gures in rock shelters and caves,on boulders and platforms. It also reÀects humankind’s richspiritual and cultural heritage and has great signi¿cance to its
creators and their descendants. Its continued existence isimportant to help global communities recognize and learn about
the diverse cultural traditions, their ancient origins andrelationships to the landscapes they have inhabited.
Therefore, it is important to emphasize that rock art is not casual
decoration; it is part of the archaeological record and it has thepotential to illuminate many parts of a culture. However, due todevelopment pressures, graf¿ti/vandalism, poor tourist
management and natural impacts, thousands of sites have beendamaged or destroyed on every continent. Thus, preservation ofthis art is very necessary owing to the rapid rate of destruction
caused by an unaware society.
Interestingly, India has one of the largest, richest and mostdiverse repositories of rock art. This art has been foundthroughout the length and breadth of the country although the
major concentration is in Central India. The fundamental
principles for rock art conservation are to work actively topromote rock art as a valuable heritage for everyone, while
allocating suf¿cient resources speci¿cally to its future care. In
this regard, the Adi Drishya Department of Indira Gandhi
National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), which is the premier andonly organization in India that has a separate department solely
working on Rock Art Studies, is doing remarkable work to
document and conserve this art, and disseminate knowledge tothe public at large and promote awareness of the need to save thiscultural treasure for posterity.
The main objective of the department is to save this precious art
form in every possible aspect. The primary work is to maketextual, contextual video, and photo documentation andcommunicate with people in the hinterland for archaeological50

research, and to build up an ecological atlas of the rock art
landscape. The documentation does not just consist of thepaintings and petroglyphs, but in fact, includes the various tribes
which still associate themselves with this art. Their indigenous
traditions and beliefs are also being extensively documented.
Some of the major works done by the Adi Drishya Department,
IGNCA, are as follows.
Multidisciplinary Field Documentation: The Adi Drishya
Department has initiated ¿eld documentation at a national levelfor preserving the rock art sites/data, which are otherwise open
to human vandalism and natural factors beyond one’s control. A
programme of ¿eld documentation in phases has been planned indifferent states of India with rock art concentrations. A numberof survey and pilot study programmes are organised as part of
IGNCA’s outreach programme and so far, ¿eld documentationin ¿fteen states has been completed comprising more than 800
sites. The documentation is done in collaboration with the local
experts and institutions of the areas/zones concerned. The data
are being collected in a uniform format at the national level. A
huge database has been compiled in this process and thousandsof images have already been digitized.
Digital Database: A digital and manual database of numerous
sites of most of the states of India is being created. After the
preparation of this database, the data will be put on IGNCA’s
server to make them available for scholars worldwide. The
urgent need to document the rock art sites spreads along thedifferent geographical regions of the country as they are being
damaged at a very fast pace.
Awareness Programs – A Key to Saving this Art for Posterity:
A very signi¿cant aspect of rock art studies is to sensitize thepublic, which is vital for successful planning and budgeting forconservation and management. Genuine community involvement
can result in greater awareness of rock art, increased economic
opportunities and higher quality display and interpretation for
visitors. Thus, frequent organization of awareness programs at
the ground level is being done to make people aware of our richrock art heritage. Moreover, not many people can travel toanother city to see the exhibition, so why not take the exhibition
to the public? Accordingly, a mobile exhibition, titled ‘The
World of Rock Art’ and which is primarily about the rock art ofall ¿ve continents, with a special focus on Indian art works, isbeing taken to different cities. The mobile exhibitions are
speci¿cally organized at universities/colleges to make themavailable to students. Special lectures on rock art of particularregions by renowned scholars are also being organised, toenlighten students and other interested people. During the mobile
exhibitions, children’s workshops, called ‘Impressions’, areorganized as well. Building awareness among students/children
about this rich art treasure and inculcating a feeling of ownershipat such a tender age will help in curbing vandalism at the sites.

Publications on Rock Art: The Department brings out apublication on every academic event it organizes, which helps
the scholars/students working in the ¿eld. So far, ¿fteen
publications have been produced. A brief account of all of thesepublications can be found on the website of IGNCA. Rock art isan archive of indigenous arts and history, documenting complex

Memorial Lectures: A memorial lecture series in the memoryof Dr V. S. Wakankar, who is the father of Indian rock art studies,
has been initiated from 2017 by the Department. The memorial
lecture is being delivered by an eminent scholar of rock art
annually.
Conclusion: Despite all these efforts invested in the research,documentation and conservation of rock art, many sites are still
experiencing ongoing and new threats to their survival. It is theduty of each one of us to help organizations like IGNCA andmany others in their efforts to conserve this valuable art, which
is an irreplaceable cultural resource that needs utmost protection
and preservation for posterity.
Acknowledgements: I would like to express my sincere thanks
to Dr B. L. Malla, Project Director, Adi Drishya Department,
IGNCA, for allowing the use of photographs and for various
other forms of help in making this report.

FIGURE 1. Field documentation at Lekhaniya, Uttar
Pradesh, India

FIGURE 2. Field documentation at Kaza, Himachal
Pradesh, India

FIGURE 3. Visitors at the Rock Art Exhibition
organized by IGNCA at New Delhi, India

FIGURE 4. Students taking active participation at theChildren’s Workshop, titled ‘Impressions’

FIGURE 5. Addressing the gathering at the IndiaChina Rock Art Workshop-cum-Exhibition

FIGURE 6. Delegates from Spain and China at theInternational Workshop

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Academic Programs: Many international and national
conferences, seminars and workshops have been organized indifferent states of India. Eminent scholars from all ¿elds share
their views and formulate new strategies for proper conservationand management of the rock art sites. An important point to noteis that collaboration with premier national and international
research institutes is being done to work ef¿ciently in preserving
this art.

knowledge and spiritual beliefs for which there may be no otherrecord.

51

Indonesia
The Kendari II Air¿eld of Southeast Sulawesi: Forgotten Fields of the Second World
War in Indonesia
Nur Ihsan, Research Staff
Archaeological Research Centre for Society, Institute for Research and Community Service, Hasanuddin
University

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Introduction
As for many wars that were recorded in human history, theSecond World War is one of the most memorable events in thetwentieth century, and it is haunting us as the second instance ofindustrialized global violence after the Great War. Its massive
and global impact was reÀected in its three main theaters:
Europe, Africa, and the Paci¿c.
One of the regions affected by the Second World War was
Southeast Asia, as manifested both in narrative and material
sources. From the historical sources, the Second World War inSoutheast Asia was set in the context of struggles of the Europeanand American colonies to achieve independence. The Second
World War brought an end to the European and the Americancolonial empires in Southeast Asia, instigated by the movementof Japanese troops to the south [1]. Another abundant yet
neglected source of data is presented by the various military
installations spread throughout the region.
Among the other affected areas in Southeast Asia, the Netherland
East-Indies (now the Republic of Indonesia) was a stage where
the Axis and the Allies struggled during the Second World War.
Soon after toppling the Netherland’s colonial power in 1942,
Japanese troops spread and established their occupation
administration throughout the archipelago which lasted until
1945 (see Figure 2). During this occupational period, theJapanese left many material traces that can be found in (1) the
main cities that were ruled by the Netherland East-Indies colonialadministration, (2) the plantations, factories, and mines that weretaken over from the Dutch, (3) the main transportation routes forresource and minerals, and (4) military bases of the Netherland
East-Indies, etc.

When the Japanese troops invaded, Southeast Sulawesi was oneof the earliest areas taken [3]. This so-called Kendari area held
abundant Japanese military installations that spread out
throughout its mainland and insular areas such as Muna, Buton,
Wawonii, and Wakatobi Islands. Mainly, those military
installations consist of various defensive structures such as
air¿elds, jetties, pillboxes, bunkers, arti¿cial hideout caves,ammo dumps, and military and administrative buildings.
One of the signi¿cant sites that has been investigated is Kendari
II Air¿eld. This has been surveyed and excavated intensively
since 2012 by the Archaeological Of¿ce of South Sulawesi(Balar Sulsel) and the Archaeology Department of Universitas
Halu Oleo (Archaeology UHO) [4, 5]. In 2015–16, Archaeology
UHO in cooperation with Balar Sulsel conducted survey andexcavation work. The ¿eld walking survey covering about 1.624
ha in area involved more than 70 students from Archaeology
UHO. Excavation was conducted of ¿ve selected areas by thestudents as part of their excavation training and supervised
intensively by archaeologists from Balar Sulsel. Both the survey
and excavation were primarily aimed at reconstructing the
Kendari II Air¿eld as a battle¿eld landscape during the Second
World War by uncovering remains from the pre- to the WWII
periods.
This report will summarize the three years of archaeological¿eldwork at Kendari II Air¿eld. The ¿rst part of this reportprovides a brief historical background of this historic air¿eld.
The second part gives a summary of archaeological ¿ndings
related to the Paci¿c War. The last part discusses some points
regarding this air¿eld in relation to Paci¿c War heritage
protection in Indonesia.
Historical Background
In anticipation of the Japanese military expansion, in the 1930s
the Dutch had started to strengthen their defensive structure in
the Netherland East Indies. As part of the so-called “Defense
Fundamentals for the Netherlands Indies” policy, the Dutch
poured in a signi¿cant defense investment beginning from 1936[3]. The investment included the establishment of a network of
air¿elds that spread out over the archipelago. One of the air¿elds
built during this period is the Kendari II Air¿eld in Southeast
Sulawesi. Since then, this air¿eld was utilized continuously andexpanded through time as elaborated in the following table.

MAP 1. Japanese troops’ movement in the conquest of theNetherland East Indies, 1942–45 [2]52

Based on the chronology collated above, the Kendari II Air¿eld
can be seen as a landscape occupied and utilized by various“regimes,” leaving many remains as markers of their presence.

Important Events

Dutch East Indies Administration
Period 1936/37 – 1942-

Construction of Kendari II Airfield began.
Dutch Air Force plane first landed (7 Oct 1938).
Emergency runway constructed and airfield area delineated (Apr 1939).
War logistic stocking by the Allies (Jan 1942).

Japanese Period
1942 – 1945-

Japanese troops took over the airfield (24 Jan 1942).
Runway reorientated and expanded.
Airfield defense, administration, and maintenance structure developed.
Suffered a series of bombing missions by the Allies (28 Jan 1942 – 16 Feb 1945).
Development of supporting airfields at Boro-Boro, Ambesia, Kolaka, Muna, andButon.

Netherland Indies Civil Administration(NICA) Period 1945 – 1950-

Damaged airfield facilities reconstructed.

The Period of the Republic of Indonesia
1950 – now-

Indonesian Air Force plane first landed.
Kendari II Indonesian Air Force Detachment established (Oct 1950).

TABLE 1. A brief overview of the development of Kendari II Airﬁeld, South East Sulawesi [5]Up until now, the air¿eld has been utilized as a domestic airport
named Haluoleo Airport and as a military base of the Indonesian
Air Force.
The Second World War Remains
The accumulation of data collected from ¿eld research conductedby the Archaeological Of¿ce of South Sulawesi in 2012, andcooperative research between the Archaeology Department
Universitas Halu Oleo with the Archaeological Of¿ce of South
Sulawesi in 2016 and 2017, found 198 spots that containarchaeological ¿ndings. In general, there are 22 kinds of ¿ndings
observed from the survey, namely bunkers, ammo dumps,
revetments, gun emplacements, toilets, septic tanks, bridges,
beer bottles, projectiles, ceramics, and so on. The spatial
distribution is visualized in the following map. (Map 2)

air¿eld. Control of the critical terrain was maintained by
distributing several anti-aircraft gun emplacements around the
runway. The kinds of the gun caliber used were calculated inconsideration of the ¿eld of ¿re of the gun. Vegetation andtopography around the air¿eld were also effectively used as acover and concealment for the personnel working in theadministration and maintenance area.

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PeriodSummarizing the results, the excavations conducted in ¿velocations aimed to ¿nd, identify, and reconstruct (1) artifacts
related to military activity during the Second World War, (2)features of buildings or structural remains, and (3) activity areasand spatial patterns based on the distribution of artifacts andfeatures. The archaeological excavations revealed some ¿ndings
related to the military activities in Kendari II Air¿eld. Most of
the artifacts are closely related with the Japanese military such as
ammo projectiles, bottles, ceramics, gas mask ¿lter canisters,
porcelain ware, and many more.
Reconstruction of the battle¿eld landscape of Kendari II Air¿eld
was done by deploying COCOA analysis, a terrain analysis
model developed by the US military [6]. COCOA analysis was
deployed in order to understand the spatial distribution ofarchaeological ¿ndings from Kendari II Air¿eld. The elementsof the analysis, i.e., Critical Terrain, Obstacles, Cover andConcealment, Observation and Field of Fire, and Avenue ofApproach, were considered in placing defensive features on thisLegendBuilding
Artifact

Art. Concentration

FeatureStructure

53

Group Training Course (Country Report)

FIGURE 1. 3D model of type Z bunkers (left) and revetments (right) at Kendari II Airﬁeld [5]

FIGURE 2. Variants of beer bottles found at Kendari II Airﬁeld. Two dominant brands are Dai Nippon Brewery (left) and Kirin Beer (right).
Picture in the middle is the beer brand logo embossed on the bottle (a & b: Dai Nippon Brewery; c: Kirin Beer) [5]

FIGURE 3. Telegraph insulator produced by Koransa Corp. (left), gas mask filter canister for Japanese Imperial Navy (middle), andporcelain dish produced by Oriental Ware Ceramics (right). [5]54

Dealing with Wartime Heritage in Indonesia
As a large and extensive Japanese military installation during theSecond World War, it is surprising that this site is nevermentioned in the text of the National History of Indonesia [7].
What is more surprising is that this site has never been visited by
students from the surrounding area, even though the Second
World War period in Indonesia is a speci¿c topic in their history
textbooks.

disadvantage concerns the limited access for the public to visit it
for academic research as well as educational purposes.
Furthermore, proposing a heritage management plan for the war
heritage located on a military base is another issue because there
are no clear regulations, nor inter-institutional cooperation pacts,that can be used as a basis for developing such a site. The term
“national security” is a recurring issue faced by any efforts todevelop this kind of site.

Because of its status as an air force base, the strict access toarchaeological remains in this location is a bene¿t on the one
hand and a disadvantage on the other. As bene¿t, it helps toprevent any further destruction caused by cultural transformation,
beyond deterioration already resulting from natural factors. The

Archaeological remains from a dif¿cult period such as theSecond World War in Indonesia are abundant. Despite its
signi¿cance in Indonesian historiography as well as the Second
World War history in the Paci¿c Theater, this kind of heritage,
due to the historical process that caused it to come under theReferences
1. Hack, K. and K. Blackburn, “Japanese-occupied Asia from
1941 to 1945; One occupier, many captivities, andmemories,” in Forgotten Captives in Japanese-occupied
Asia, K. Hack and K. Blackburn, Editors. 2007, Routledge:
London & New York.
2.

Post, P., et al., eds. The Encyclopedia of Indonesia in the
Paciﬁc War. Series: Handbook of Oriental Studies, ed. V.
Lieberman and M. C. Ricklefs. Vol. 19. 2010, Brill: Leiden.

3.

Groen, P., “The War in the Paci¿c,” in The Encyclopedia ofIndonesia in the Paciﬁc War, P. Post, et al., Editors. 2010,
Brill: Leiden.

4.

Balai Arkeologi Makassar, Jejak-Jejak Sejarah Kebudayaan
Sulawesi Tenggara Daratan. 2012, Makassar: Balai
Arkeologi Sulawesi Selatan.

5.

Untarti, D. P., et al., Studi Arkeologi Historis Lapangan
Udara Kendari II: Rekonstruksi Lapangan Udara Kendari
II (Kendari II Airﬁeld) sebagai Medan Pertempuran Masa
Perang Dunia II. 2016, Jurusan Arkeologi FIB UHO dan
Balai Arkeologi Sulawesi Selatan: Kendari.

6.

Chandler, T. D. J., An Archaeological and Historical Studyof Fort Hampton, Limestone County, Alabama (1809-1816).
2014, M. A. Thesis (2007), The University of Alabama.

7.

Poesponegoro, M. D., Sejarah Nasional Indonesia VI: Zaman
Jepang dan Zaman Republik Indonesia. Pemutakhiran ed.
Vol. 6. 2008, Jakarta: Balai Pustaka.

8.

Wardaya, Cakrawala Sejarah untuk SMA/MA Kelasi XI(Program IPS). 2009, Jakarta: Pusat Perbukuan Departemen
Pendidikan Nasional.

9.

Sudirman and A. D. Lestariningsih, Sejarah Indonesia untuk
SMA/MA/SMK/MAK Kelasi XI: Buku Guru. 2014, Jakarta:
Kementerian Pendidikan dan Kebudayaan.

10.

Sudirman and A. D. Lestariningsih, Sejarah Indonesia
untuk SMA/MA/SMK/MAK Kelasi XI Semeter 1: Buku
Siswa. 2014, Jakarta: Kementerian Pendidikan dan
Kebudayaan RI.

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jurisdiction of Indonesian military forces, receives a lack ofproper attention. Ever since the beginning of Indonesianhistoriography, the mainstream narratives on the Second World
War in Indonesia have focused on the bitterness of life during theJapanese occupation. That kind of narrative can be found in theof¿cial history books such as the series National History ofIndonesia [7] and several history school textbooks [8–10].
Despite the positive effects that Indonesians gained from theJapanese through their war mobilization efforts, we can sense
glori¿cation of the Allies’ narratives. That kind of glori¿cation
was reÀected when the government of the Republic of Indonesia
spent almost 30 billion rupiahs to build a Second World War
Museum in Morotai, a famous Allied military base in North
Maluku during the Second World War. State budget in thatamount was never spent on the Japanese war heritage inIndonesia. Up to this point, the issue is not only about thecomparison of the preservation of the Japanese vis-à-vis theAllied war heritage in Indonesia, but also about an imbalance in
the Second World War heritage data in Indonesia.

55

Kazakhstan
International project, “Kazakh-Korean cooperative archaeological expedition” (20152017)
Aidana Koptileuova, Researcher
Primary Laboratory of Archaeology Artefacts, Archaeology and Ethnography Department, National Museum of
the Republic of KazakhstanGroup Training Course (Country Report)

Since 2015, the National Museum has been cooperating with the
National Research Institute of Cultural Heritage of the Republic ofKorea (Daejeon). On the basis of a bilateral agreement, museum
staff have been trained in the ACPCS program and have a joint
project in archeology titled the “Kazakh-Korean cooperativearchaeological expedition.” This project is designed to explore
cultural and historical ties between the ancient state of Usun inCentral Asia and Silla on the Korean Peninsula. The target ofresearch is located in the Almaty region, Raiymbek district, rural
district of Qarasaz, in the funerary complex of Qatartobe.
In ancient times in the territory of Kazakhstan there was a stateof famous tribes of Scythians called Saka; in history this period
is called the time of the early nomads or the era of the early Iron
Age. The Saka tribes considered their ruler as the representativeof the creator on earth. This power was considered supernaturaland was inherited from generation to generation. Many legends
were written about the power of the Saka tribes, which were
preserved in the writings of the Greeks, Persians and Chinese.
The proof of the honor of the rulers is the famous Saka royal
tombs, which are found widely throughout the territory of
Kazakhstan. Thus today, according to of¿cial data, a total of six
so-called “golden men” have been found. The reconstructions
and original ¿nds are kept in the exhibits and stores of the
National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The very ¿rst
“Golden Man” that was found in the Kazakh land in 1969–70 in

the Issyk Kurgan — today this is a national treasure of thecountry and a symbol of our independence. The remaining ¿ve"golden men" were found relatively not long ago. Altogether
there are ¿ve men and one woman. There are many royal burial
mounds in Kazakhstan, but the problem is that they were looted
by the tribesmen themselves or within one or two centuries after
the burial ceremony.
Among the most outstanding archaeological discoveries
pertaining to the era of the early nomads and being an invaluable
source for a perspective on the ancient tribes are the ¿nds fromthe mounds of Issyk, Besshatyr (Zhetysu), Arzhan 1, Arzhan 2(Central Tuva), Shilikty, Berel, Pazyryk (Altai), Taldy II (EastSary Arka), Taksai I (West Kazakhstan) and Filippovski(Southern Urals). Particular attention should be paid to the factthat many of these ¿nds date back to the very beginning of theera of the early nomads. Such monuments as Arzhan 1 and 2,
Shilikty, Taldy II, Besshatyr indicate the fully developed imageof the culture of the population, which created those amazingmonuments of antiquity. The early stage of the animal styledevelopment is striking in its perfection of form and thecomplexity of the ancient masters’ intention. The following fact
is truly amazing. The ¿nds from these mounds, with distances
between them being many hundreds of kilometers, are extremely
similar up to the point that some items may be recognized as
identical to each other.

FIGURE 1. Reconstruction of “Golden man’s” FIGURE 2. Reconstruction of a noble Sarmatian FIGURE 3. Ceremonial funeral clothing ofclothing, Issyk burial ground. Zhetysu. IV-III c BC
woman’s ceremonial clothing. Complex Taksai I. Saka king, Baigetobe burial ground. East
West Kazakhstan. VI-V c BC
Kazakhstan. VIII-VII c BC

56

Excavations of the royal burial mounds under the international
project “Kazakh-Korean cooperative archaeological expedition”
began in early August 2015 at the funerary complex of Qatartobe,
which is located on the Shalkode steppes. In Kazakh, Qatartobe
means “hills in one row.” The complex consists of more than¿fty different dated burial/funerary constructions stretchingalong the chain from the north to the south. This necropolis isconditionally divided into four groups.

In 2016, excavations were carried out on mounds No. 8 and No.
10. Kurgan, or mound, No. 8 is located just north of the central
part of the necropolis. The diameter of the embankment was 27
m, and the height was 1.5 m. The mound was built from theground, three grave pits with wooden log houses were identi¿ed,and an “underground passage” to the central large pit had been
provided. All three burials in one mound had been looted. Mound
No. 10 was originally in critical condition, the diameter of theembankment was 36.2 m, and the height was 2.8 m. The moundwas built of several layers of soil and stone slabs, and inside it
was found to contain one unusual pit. In the third and ¿nal yearof expedition work, burial mounds No. 10A and No. 14 wereexcavated. Mound No. 10Ⱥ is located within mound No. 10, as asmall stone mound with a grave pit of the late period in which ahuman skeleton was found. Mound No. 14 is a dirt embankment
with a covering of stones and is surrounded with a stone pavingof square shape. During the excavation within the embankmentof the mound, a grave pit was found with a wooden covering andan entrance pathway set to the west. The bones of the deceased
were scattered inside the wooden frame and along the pathway,
due to the robbery of the burial. From the accompanying
inventory were found ceramic vessels, bronze mirrors,
arrowheads, beads, fragments of golden items, ironware, etc.
As mentioned above, the project's goal was to identify historicaland cultural ties between the early nomadic peoples of Central
Asia, represented by the Usun and Silla states. The fact is that themonuments of the Early Iron Age (dating back to the 6th–2nd
centuries BC) in Kazakhstan and Korea (dating from a later time,
4th–6th centuries AD) are very similar in the construction of themounds, as well as the inventory of ¿nds, in particular gold

Although the dating of Kazakh and Korean gold artifacts isdifferent, from the point of view of stylistic elements andsymbolism, they are very similar. In this case, it should be noted
the difference between the Korean and Kazakh periodization. A
noteworthy surprise is the following circumstance: the ¿nds
from these barrows, the distances between which are many
thousands of kilometers, are extremely similar. The view ofmany nations in the past held the idea that the ruler is symbolicof the world order. With his personality he communicated bothfavorable and negative events regarding the lives of people heled.
If at the beginning of the project it was assumed that the kings of
the Usun state were buried in Qatartobe burials, then the study
revealed that these monuments belong to the earlier Saka tribes.
The results of the project are not clear yet, the work is proceedingat full speed, and all ¿nds are being analyzed: wooden logs,
remains of human bones, and ceramics. All of the excavatedmounds were robbed in antiquity, and these burial mounds were
mostly of royal families. This is evidenced by the size of themounds, the complexity of the construction, the inventory of¿nds, as well as the presence of fragments of golden ornaments
and plaques on clothing.

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Its main mass is formed by mounds with a height of 1 to 4 m, anda diameter of 10–60 m. The mounds’ structures are basically
piled stone and earth. Some are surrounded with ditches andstone paving. In the ¿rst year of the expedition, excavations werecarried out on mound No. 1, which is located in the northern partof the chain. This earthen structure was built with the local soil,
and covered with a layer of rounded stones. Around the perimeterof the structure, a stone paving of square shape with an entrance
from the eastern and western sides was set. The width of theburial mound is 24.6 m, and the surviving height of the structureis 1.8 m. A log roof was built of solid trunks, which was set
across the long walls of the grave pit, dug into the center of theembankment, on an axis from west to east. The grave’s occupant
stretched out on its back, its head to the west. The burial had
been robbed.

products. As a result of a comparative analysis, it turned out thatthe gold ¿nds of the royal mounds of the early Iron Age arealmost identical to the gold ¿nds in the Korean mounds, but
dated to a later period. Therefore, there was a hypothesis that the
Korean peninsula was inhabited by tribes from central Asia at
the beginning of the current chronology. The basis for thishypothesis was the fact that the ¿nds in the royal barrows in
Kazakhstan were dated early, while the Korean ones were late,from which the question arose whether the culture of making
gold ornaments of the sovereigns of the two countries wasborrowed by the resettled tribes.

The complex of ceramic products found during the three-year
excavation is being processed and restored in the laboratory as
the primary act of restoration.
A ceramic artifact as a source of archaeological data contains
immense and diverse information about culture, ideology, belief,
the development of technology, family-marriage relations, andsocio-economic relations, and therefore it goes through several
stages of processing, which begins with documentation, still
photography, cleaning, preservation, gluing and restoration if
necessary, according to a determined sequence of processing. In
case the artifact lacks suf¿cient integrity, it undergoes restorative
procedures.
Among the ceramic products were found middle-sized jugs andbowls. Basically, the entire ceramic complex consisted ofdamaged items. Ceramics are mainly made of medium-sizedclay with natural impurities of brown iron ore, or limestone.
Presumably the dishes were made on a ¿rm pattern, in somevessels inside the bottom there were traces of padding – chopped

57

grass. As arti¿cial additives, large-sized pellets were used in an
amount of §20-25% of the organic materials. The walls of thecups were completed with the help of banded clay, the diagonal
seam being of different widths, from 1 to 2.5 cm. The outersurface of the vessels was slightly polished. Some striations wereapplied on the dried surface, horizontally. The paste is loose. The¿ring was carried out in an oxidizing environment, withinsuf¿cient holding at a temperature of 400-600 degrees. Lightproducts vary from gray-yellow to reddish shades. Some vessels
contain carbon black. For conservation works of the ceramiccomplex of Qatartobe, restoration work was carried out using theepoxy ¿ller Quikwood.
In addition, we should note that some prospection work wasdone on all burials of the funerary complex with Koreanequipment. It helped to explore the underground content of all
burials which were not excavated.
The head of project is Byun Younghwan, and from the Kazakhside the responsible person is Onggar Akhan.

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FIGURE 4. Restoration process

FIGURE 5. Stages of restoration

58

Kiribati
Problems and Needs for Cultural Heritage Protection and Restoration Activities in
Kiribati: Based on Speci¿c Case Studies of My Own Experience and Insight
Tawake Eriata, Assistant Cultural Ofﬁcer
Culture and Museum Division, Ministry of Internal Affairs

Kiribati has 33 islands in total while 24 of these are inhabited. In
each island there are many cultural heritage sites, traditionalbuildings known as te mwaneaba and monuments that all tell thehistory of how Kiribati people lived in the past. All componentsof the cultural heritage (sites, monuments, buildings) wereassociated with the traditional skills and knowledge of thepeople, which form the I-Kiribati culture. Most of the sites werelocated in coastal areas. The issues and needs for cultural heritage
preservation and restoration in Kiribati will be discussed in thisreport.
Issues/problems for preservation and restoration activities
on archaeological sites
1. Most of the sites located in coastal areas are severely affectedby high tides and coastal erosion due to the impact of climatechange. Some have already been lost and some are deteriorating.
Since climate change is the major issue faced by Kiribati, it also
affects most of the cultural heritage.
2. Some sites have been lost due to infrastructure development.
Communities from the Nonouti and Abemama islands reported
during the community consultations that some of their culturalsites had been destroyed during the construction of newcauseways and airports on these two islands. Therefore, theseplaces/sites are less known by people nowadays, especiallyamong the younger generations.
3. In some cases, many cultural sites such as monuments andtraditional buildings have been destroyed by human activity due
to inadequate understanding, especially by the youth, of how
important it is for cultural sites to be preserved to maintain theiridentity. In serious cases, local people may be conÀicted
regarding some cultural properties that portrayed power andauthority in their respective villages. For such reasons, people
have decided to destroy traditional buildings and cultural sites inorder to abolish the associated power narratives, to make people

more equal. This is the most dif¿cult type of situation, in whichpeople are unwilling to support the preservation and restorationof their cultural heritage.
4. There is a lack of local expertise, in the skills and knowledge
in the ¿eld of heritage preservation and restoration and associatedskills/knowledge, which is one of the main problems in Kiribati.
Capacity building for staff is lacking especially now since mostof the staff are newly recruited. This presents dif¿culties for thestaff to initiate restoration and preservation activities, especiallyfor archaeological sites. The of¿ce is currently focused on raisingcultural awareness to encourage cultural heritage preservationand protection at the community level, but practical and research
activities are poorly developed.
5. Another problem is ¿nancial constraints. This is the mostcommon problem but the of¿ce is still working to seek funding
from developed countries and other sources of aid that can
assist.

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I-Kiribati, the native people of Kiribati, are culturally andethnically homogeneous with a shared genetic history, cultural
traditions, values, historical experience, and language.
Traditional knowledge and cultural heritage sites are a richresource for Kiribati. Culture is implicit in the Kiribati
community, although the intrinsic value tends to be overlooked.
Tangible cultural heritage in the form of archaeological sites andartefacts is becoming increasingly undervalued and is also
deteriorating.

Speci¿c report on endangered cultural heritage mapping in
Kiribati: Nnabakana (Stone warriors) This project was carriedout in 2013 by former of¿cers from the culture and museum
division supported by the Secretariat of the Paci¿c Community(SPC) and funded by a European Union project entitled‘Structuring the cultural sector in the Paci¿c for improved humandevelopment’. This is one of the unique cultural sites located on
Tabiteuea Island which is nominated to be protected as World
Heritage. The process was not completed due to ¿nancial
constraints as the funding was not adequate. The ¿nal report on
this work proposed some actions to be done to this site such as
the following.
• Reconstruction of broken and lost Nnabakana (stones)• Drafting of a regulatory framework for the protection ofendangered cultural heritage• Identi¿cation of elements of endangered cultural heritage thatneed immediate preservation and conservation• Documentation of all oral traditions through publishing,transmission and storage for future generations and publicationof Tabiteueas’ version of the story on this site
However, these proposed actions have not yet been carried out
due to the lack of skilled staff to conduct the work and limited¿nancial support to recruit retired local experts to facilitate theactivities.

59

Group Training Course (Country Report)
NEEDS: What we need in order to resolve the issues
mentioned above, and what we need to do in order to secure
our NEEDS
1. Raise awareness in local communities so they can also assist
to preserve their heritage and identify knowledge holders in
respective communities so they can assist in restoration/conservation work (for traditional buildings andmonuments). This is a new government focus so there is anincrease in the budget compared with before, but it is still
not enough.
2. Staff needs to be trained in conservation and restoration
skills/knowledge and other relevant capabilities required for
cultural heritage preservation and restoration.
3. The culture and museum division needs to work together
with local communities, and other sectors involved ininfrastructure development (rural planning division, local
government, and the Ministry of Infrastructure andSustainable Energy) to identify cultural sites for protection
on each island so they can consider those sites in theiroperational plans, to avoid destruction due to their culturalvalue and signi¿cance.
4. Financial assistance is needed for those of¿ces always
seeking funding from available donors who assist in theprovision of funding to implement the work.

60

5.

There is no legislation or policies related to cultural heritage
preservation.

Problems/issues for preservation and restoration activities
for artefacts
1. There is limited space inside the museum for the exhibitions,and for storage and conservation work if required. The of¿ce isalready requesting for an extension of of¿ce space and the workon this is in progress, but due to ¿nancial constraints there arework delays. Also, the shelves and other furniture required for
displaying and storing the objects are not suf¿cient.
2. The temperature is not controlled, which causes most of theartefacts to deteriorate. Most of our artefacts are made fromcoconut ¿bres and strands, or pandanus strands and wood. We
also have some paintings and photographs and a lot of printed
documents. Most of these artefacts have deteriorated due to the
hot temperatures.
3. There are no staff responsible for restoration/conservation, sosome of the objects have become damaged. There is also a lackof skills and knowledge among the staff in the ¿eld of cultural
heritage restoration/ conservation.

preserved in the museum for future generations to know theircultural stories. The work also involved recording of the sites on
GPS and collecting of artefacts to be displayed in the museum.
The cost was so high that the government could not afford it, so
it was funded by the SPC.

NEEDS: What we need in order to resolve the issues
mentioned above, and what we need to do in order to secure
our NEEDS
1. Museum development is needed, in terms of expanding thebuilding and providing more furniture and storage (shelves,cupboards, cabinets, etc.) in order to preserve the artefacts,and for more space required for storage and conservation
work. The government is now working on this and seeking
more funding from other developed countries. They are
seeking donations from big museums (e.g., the Auckland
Museum through the Paci¿c Collection Access Project).

Report on a case study of a cultural mapping project which also
shows some issues for preservation and restoration of cultural
heritage: Documentation of cultural heritage in all Kiribati islands
The work was conducted from 2005 to 2010 with the main
purpose of collecting and documenting all of the cultural heritage
such as oral stories, cultural sites, traditional performing arts,
etc. After completion of the mapping, the ¿nal book of cultural
stories for all of the islands will be produced to be kept and2.

Staff members need to be trained in speci¿c skills/knowledge
relevant to the preservation and restoration of cultural
heritage. We always seek opportunities related to this ¿eldin terms of short training courses, intern programs andavailable scholarships (e.g., the intern program with
Auckland Museum funded by the NZ government, First Aid
to Cultural Heritage in Times of Crisis training of ICCROM,
funded by the Prince Claus Fund, and ACCU training) andhope to get more.

3.

Requests for foreign technical advisors to work with the
Kiribati museum.

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However, this work has still not yet been completed even now.
The problem is that some of the recordings are not clear whichcaused dif¿culties in completing the report, and most of thecoordinates were lost. The information on the artefacts that had
been collected was also lost and there are no quality photos that
we can use for exhibition after this work. This shows the lack ofskills and knowledge regarding documentation, photographing,etc., by the staff members who conducted the work. The of¿ce is
now continuing the work and revisiting the islands to do a review,to correct the names and stories mentioned. This was started
from 2015 and is yet to be completed. The issue faced during thisrevisit is that some of the informants have already passed away
without transmitting the stories. Based on personal observation
during the work, most people did not know the stories and eventhe location of the sites mentioned in the previous mapping.
Elderly people who are experts in traditional skills do not pass ontheir skills/knowledge. So, the loss of traditional knowledge/
skills for building, etc., is also a major issue.

From the above discussion of the issues faced by Kiribati for cultural
heritage preservation and restoration, I do hope that this course is avery great opportunity to learn and acquire skills and knowledge
that are important to resolve such issues. I would like to thank all theorganizers, ACCU, NARA, ICCROM and others, for giving such agreat opportunity which is worthwhile and very helpful for Kiribati.

61

Lao PDR
Cultural Heritage Overview of Laos
Sommay Singthong, Head of Archaeological Unit
Archaeology and Cultural Resource Management Course, Department of History and Archaeology, Faculty ofSocial Sciences, National University of LaosGroup Training Course (Country Report)

1. Introduction
Laos is a landlocked country located in mainland South East
Asia, surrounded by China, Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar andCambodia. It covers 236,800 square kilometres, with around
70% of the geographic area made up of mountain ranges,
highlands, and plateaus cut through by rivers. There are twomain seasons, which are the rainy season and the dry season. It
has a population of around 6,973,554 million as of 2017.

in archaeological remains dating throughout the Middle
Pleistocene to Holocene. However, I will highlight some cultural
heritage sites in Laos, particularly the World Heritage sites of the
Town of Luang Prabang, and Vat Phou and Associated Ancient
Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape, as wellas the Plain of Jars site (a site for which application forrecognition as World Heritage, the third such site in Laos, iscurrently underway).

Laos is rich in natural resources and has been inhabited byhumans for thousands of years, and as a result there are manyvarieties of archaeological evidence and monuments distributed
around the country. These archaeological remains are a reÀectionof the arts, culture, knowledge, and intellectual life of ourancestors in Laos over many thousands of years.

2. The cultural heritage sites
Currently, there are two cultural heritage sites that have been
inscribed on the World Heritage list, and one site is in progressof being assessed for such recognition.

As well known, research in prehistory in Laos was previously
undertaken by French geologists during the French Indochineseperiod with the establishment of the Geological Survey ofIndochina (GSI; Zeitoun et al., 2012). J. Fromaget joined the GSI
in 1923 and conducted extensive excavations in northern Laosand Vietnam, discovering Indochinese hominid remains. Similar
to many of his geologist colleagues around the world, he was not
only interested in soil formations but also concerned about
prehistory. Along with other GSI members, M. Colani, E. Patte,and H. Marsuy, he conducted numerous archaeological surveys
in the region, resulting in many publications in the Bulletins andMemoirs of the GSI. The prehistoric sites are mainly in thenorthern part of Laos such as Houei Hoc, Tam Pa Loi, Tam
Pong, and Tam Hang (Demeter, 2009).
After a long period of inactivity due to the geopolitical situation,prehistoric cave sites, rock shelters and monuments wererevisited beginning in 1999–2000 by a Laotian team under the
direction of Thongsa Sayavongkhamdy. Exploratory survey
work was done at many prehistoric sites as well as test pit
excavations in several caves and rock shelters in the northern andmiddle parts of Lao PDR.
Since 2005 there has been new interest from international teams
in prehistoric surveys in Laos, focusing especially on theprehistoric chronology, namely, the (pre-)Hoabinhian lithic
technocomplex in northern Laos, but also concerning rock art on
the Mekong River banks. Meanwhile, lithic assemblage remains,
human bones, and other objects have also been discovered in thisregion.
Previous research has suggested that the Mekong basin was rich62

2.1 Town of Luang Prabang (World Heritage)
Luang Prabang is situated between two rivers, the Mekong and
the Khan, and surrounded by a ring of mountains; Luang Prabang
is rich in cultural heritage with monasteries, monuments,
traditional customs, and surrounded by beautiful nature. The
Town of Luang Prabang was inscribed on the World Heritage listin 1995. It is an outstanding example of traditional architectureand Lao urban structures, built by the European colonial
authorities in the 19th and 20th centuries. Its unique, remarkably
well-preserved townscape illustrates a key stage in the blendingof these two distinct cultural traditions. Many traditional Laohouses remain; they are built of wood using traditional techniquesand materials introduced in the colonial period.
Temples in Luang Prabang play an important role in the daily
life of residents. Ceremonies to appease the nagas and other evil
spirits, and Buddhist religious practices perpetuate the sanctityof the place. Natural spaces located in the heart of the city, andalong the riverbanks and wetlands (a complex network of ponds
used for ¿sh farming and vegetable growing) complement thispreserved natural environment. Furthermore, there are numerous
archaeological sites and monuments including natural tourism
sites in this town as well (Poong et al., 2015). Luang Prabang asa World Heritage site has experienced tremendous change
caused by rapid development and growth brought by tourism.
Existing studies are critical of the impact of tourism, as negativelytransforming this town, but lack in-depth analysis and asigni¿cant sample size to clearly discern the changes (Leong etal., 2016).
As well known, the Town of Luang Prabang World Heritage site
is surrounded by a ring of mountains which gives a limited frame
for extending the city, so this can be a barrier issue in cultural
heritage preservation. The capacity of Heritage House isRegarding the issues mentioned above, the Lao authorities areplanning for the safeguarding of the Town of Luang Prabang, asshown by the recent adoption of the new law for the protectionof the national heritage, as well as the revival of the National
Heritage Committee.

FIGURE 1. Luang Prabang town (February, 2009)

2.2 Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements within theChampasak Cultural Landscape
Vat Phou Temple is situated on a hillside and offers stunningviews over the surrounding land and Mekong River. Visitors
who appreciate art and history will be amazed by the magni¿centworkmanship in this temple ruin complex in the form of temple
pillars, lintels, pediments, terraces, courtyard walls, doorways,
sanctuaries, shrines and palaces. There is also a natural springthat is believed by locals to emit holy water. One temple in thesite was constructed around the 5th century but most buildings
found in the complex are from the 11th to 13th centuries. It wasconstructed using sandstone, laterite and bricks. Among many of
the outstanding carvings there are those of Indra, the Hindu godof war, storms, and rainfall, riding a three-headed elephant andof Vishnu riding on a garuda, an eagle (Messeri, 2008).
Vat Phou Temple was inscribed on the World Heritage list in
2001 under the name of Wat Phu and Associated Ancient
Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape. The
inscription includes not only Vat Phou Temple but also thesacred mountain of Phou Kao, Hong Nang Sida Temple and thecity of Lingapura, the ancient roadway that once led to Angkor,
Thao Tao Temple, Tham Lek cave of inscriptions, Vat Oubmung
Temple, Tomo Temple, the ancient city of Shrestrapura,Champasak Town and the island of Don Deng. Vat Phou has
been an active temple for Buddhist religious practice for quiteGroup Training Course (Country Report)pressured from development around the listed property, posing
signi¿cant risks for its future and has already led to deteriorationof this World Heritage property, particularly in its traditional
component. Around the perimeter of the Town are several
proposed development projects, including a new airport and a
new town on the right bank of the Mekong, that would have an
impact on World Heritage property, both in terms of visual
integrity and from noise pollution. Within the core area, illegalbuilding activities include the demolition and reconstruction oflisted properties. This is leading to the loss of important elementsof the historic urban landscape, in particular the Lao traditional
structures and gardens, etc. On the other hand, the current socioeconomic trends are causing a progressive reduction in size tolocal communities, and with the loss of their intangible heritage,
to an alteration of the spirit of the place. In the long run, thismight compromise the viability of the monasteries of Luang
Prabang, which traditionally rely on alms giving for their support(UNESCO, 2008).

FIGURE 2. Wat Phu, Champasak (July, 2010)63

some time because Buddhism replaced Hinduism in Laos in the
mid-13th century. There is an altar at the front section of its
sanctuary featuring four big Buddha images with more Buddha
images around the ruins (Messeri, 2008).

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There are many archaeological remains that must be
safeguarded, and still have to be studied; certainly, thevernacular architecture must be protected before the onslaught
of modern development that will destroy the traditional
dwellings to make way for poor quality brick buildings, as isseen in other nearby districts. Crucially, efforts should be madein both the routine and urgent maintenance of the site, with amore detailed inventory of all heritage in the area. The efforts
should also include general surveillance of all the sites, eventhose not easily accessible, as well as improvement in the local
infrastructure and general services. In fact, over the past few
years, there has been progress in adapting national and local
rules and regulations; the site is attracting an increasing numberof tourists, so much attention must be given to this and to
improving residential structures. Moreover, it should beconsidered an important site from a religious point of view, andthere needs to be proper management in the peak period for
tourism during the Vat Phou Festival, a sacred Buddhist festivalthat attracts worshipers from all over the country. Only adynamic, evolving and interactive management plan will beable to bring success to the sustainable development of the sitewhile maintaining its identity (Messeri, 2008). One part of thesolution would be to increase the number of experts and to
attract fruitful international projects while involving theindigenous community in these activities to safeguard theneeds of the local population. The challenge is to balance themodernization of the country with the historical and spiritual
identity of this ancient site.
2.3 Plain of Jars
The Plain of Jars in Xiangkhouang province is one of thesigni¿cant and outstanding cultural heritage sites of Laos. The
Plain of Jars is a megalithic archaeological landscape in Laos. It
consists of thousands of stone jars scattered around the uplandvalleys and the lower foothills of the central plain of the
Xiangkhouang Plateau. The jars are mostly arranged in clusters
ranging in number from one to several hundred. French
researcher Madeleine Colani concluded in 1930 that the jars
were associated with prehistoric burial practices. Excavations byLao, Japanese and Australian archaeologists in the intervening
years have supported this interpretation with the discovery ofhuman remains, burial goods and ceramics around the jars. The
Plain of Jars is dated to the Iron Age (500 BC to AD 500) and is
one of the most important prehistoric sites in Southeast Asia.
More than 90 jar sites have been identi¿ed within Xiangkhouang
Province. Each site has from one to 400 stone jars. The jars varyin height and diameter between 1 m and 3 m and are all hewn
from rock. Their shape is cylindrical with the bottom always
wider than the top (Genovese, 2009). The stone jars are
undecorated, with the exception of a single jar at Site 1. Stone
discs have also been found.

64

There are many challenges in terms of cultural heritage
management at this site due to the million pieces of buried
unexploded ordnance (UXO; impeding any research or
excavation), damage from tourists and visitors who still climb or
step on the jars during their visits, and from tree roots that arealso invading the jars at some sites. Nevertheless, over a periodof 20 years, to 1992, several jars were moved from Site 1 tovarious other locations. There are jars currently in theSmithsonian Institution, USA, taken there during the war in
1970s. Some jars were airlifted to the capital, Vientiane. The
following story was recently recounted to the author by twovillagers at Site 17, namely, that in 1999–2000 two jars weremoved from their original location to be presented as gifts to thetemple in the nearby village. The challenges affecting the fragile
heritage of the Plain of Jars are many and varied, ranging fromthe elements, including temperature extremes and tropicalclimate, to urban sprawl. Most sites are set on mountain slopes inwind-prone areas, in a region characterized by hot daytime
temperatures and cold nights, with abundant summer rainfall.
Cattle roam freely among the jars, a source of damage whencows rub their horns against the urns. Erosion is a major problem
for limestone jars, as vegetation can split a jar in half as alreadyobserved (Genovese, 2009).

FIGURE 3. Plain of Jars, Site 1 (March, 2016)

Because of the importance of the cultural remains of the past, theDepartment of History and Archaeology, Faculty of Social
Sciences, was established at the National University of Laos in
2009, to take responsibility for cultural preservation, and thecurriculum has been developed to promote the archaeologicaland cultural resource management disciplines. Currently, theDepartment of History and Archaeology has been encouraging
our staff and lecturers to upgrade their capacity in order todevelop archaeology and cultural heritage management tasks,
particularly for the educational degrees, skills, experiences andresearch skills needed in the above-mentioned disciplines. The
Department has been particularly seeking opportunities for
lecturers to develop their capabilities in the discipline ofarchaeology and cultural resources management. Furthermore,
the Department of History and Archaeology has also encouraged
staff and lecturers to pursue advanced training, particularly
leading to MA and PhD degrees in foreign countries, in order toimprove our capabilities and to apply this knowledge to theteaching process.
References
Giovanni Boccard and William Logan, 2008. Reactive
Monitoring Mission to the Town of Luang Prabang World
Heritage Property Lao PDR (Mission Report). Retrieved
from https://whc.unesco.org/document/10057
Paul Box, 2003.” Safeguarding the Plain of Jars megaliths andunexploded ordnance in the Lao People’s Democratic
Republic.” Journal of GIS in Archaeology, 1.
Fabrice Demeter, Laura L. Shackelford, Anne-Marie Bacon, etal., 2012. “Anatomically modern human in Southeast Asia
(Laos) by 46 ka.” PANAS, 139. https://doi.org/10.1073/
pnas.1208104109

Fabrice Demeter, Thongsa Sayavongkhamdy, Elise PatoleEdoumba, et al., 2009. “Tam Hang Rockshelter: Preliminary
Study of a Prehistoric Site in Northern Laos.” Asian
Perspectives, 48.
Lia Genovese, 2009. The Plain of Jars: Mysterious and Imperilled.
Retrieved from the Global Heritage Fund website: http://ghn.
globalheritagefund.com/uploads/documents/
document_2006.pdf
Ceelia Leong, Jun-ichi Takada and Shinobu Yamaguchi, 2016.
“Analysis of the Changing Landscape of a World Heritage
Site: Case of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR.” Sustainability, 8.
Beatrice Messeri, 2008. “Heritage Protection in Southeast Asia:
Management Plans and Conservation of World Heritage
Sites Selected case studies in Thailand, Cambodia and Lao
PDR.” SPAFA Journal, 21.
Pierre Pichard, 2010–11. “Preservation of Vat Phou monuments:
results and perspectives.” Bulletin de l’École française
d’Extrême-Orient, 97-98.
Y. S. Poong, S. Yamaguchi, and J. Takada, 2015. “Impact oflearning content on world heritage site preservation
awareness in Town of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR:
Application of protection motivation theory.” ISPRS Annalsof Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial
Information Sciences (Volume II-5/W3, pp. 251–256).
Thongsa Sayavongkhamdy and Peter Bellwood, with an
Appendix by David Bulbeek, 2000. Recent archaeologicalresearch in Laos. Bulletin of the Indo-Paciﬁc Prehistory
Association, 19.
Thongsa Sayavongkhamdy and Viengkeo Souksavatdy, 2008.
“Excavations of cave sites at Pha Phen.” In Yves Goudineau
and Michel Lorrillard (Eds.), New Research on Laos (pp.
25–35). Vientiane-Paris: École française d’Extrême-Orient.
UNESCO, 2014. Town of Luang Prabang. World Heritage
Centre website: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/479
UNESCO, 2001. Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements
within the Champasak Cultural Landscape (Nomination
document). Retrieved from the World Heritage Centre
website: https://whc.unesco.org/uploads/nominations/481.
pdf
Joyce C. White & Bounheuang Bouasisengpaseuth, 2008.
“Archaeology of the Middle Mekong: Introduction to theLuang Prabang Province Exploratory Survey.” In Yves
Goudineau and Michel Lorrillard (Eds.), New Research on
Laos (pp. 37–52). Vientiane-Paris: École française
d’Extrême-Orient.
Valery Zeitoun, Hubert Forestier, Alain Pierret, et al., 2012.
“Multi-millennial occupation in northwestern Laos:
Preliminary results of excavations at the Ngeubhinh
Mouxeu rock-shelter.” Comptes Rendu Palevol, 11. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crpv.2011.11.001

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3. Conclusion
Laos is rich in archaeological remains which are valuable
cultural resources, with a value that is hard to determine but
since these cultural remains have been created by their ancestors,
all the cultural remains from the past are a part of the proud
heritage of each Lao citizen. However, the economic developmentof the country has brought rapid change to the way of life, andthis change will affect culture, art, architecture, the environmentof the historic monuments and other things of value of the past,
and as long as the standards of management are insuf¿cient andtheir enforcement through action also not thoroughly
implemented, the future will put the archaeological and historicalsites in danger or at risk, and then the entire value of the heritage
from the past can be destroyed and links to past identity can belost. Even though experts from different countries havecontributed technical and advisory support and have been
involved in some projects, this is still insuf¿cient and it isnecessary to develop many facilities, particularly humanresources.

65

Maldives
Problems and needs for cultural heritage protection and restoration activities in MaldivesZaha Ahmed, Acting Head of Heritage Section
Heritage Section, Department of Heritage, Ministry of Education

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Maldives is a chain of atolls situated in the Indian Ocean, madeup of about 1,200 coral islands. Mostly the country is describedas having more sea than land. In ancient times the location of theMaldives made the country a famous transit point for seafarers
crossing from east to west and vice versa. Hence, the country
was exposed to various cultures and traditions. The native
population practiced Buddhism until the country embraced Islamin 1153. It is known that heritage sites are mostly inÀuenced bytheir countries’ respective religions. There is no written historyof the Maldives before its conversion to Islam. However, various
archaeological and heritage sites bear evidence that the country
has been inhabited for at least two thousand years. These heritage
sites are the most reliable asset for conserving and researching
Maldivian history and culture.
From the chronicles of Maldives history, it is evident that islands
which were inhabited in the past have become uninhabited now
for different reasons. Traces of various settlements on thoseislands bear evidence to those narratives (see Figure 1). However
without a complete heritage site inventory, some sites are yet to
be discovered. Whenever a new site is discovered on an island,
the island council informs the responsible authorities. To further
investigate, a technical team visits the island. However, theresponse and support from the local community plays animportant role in the further investigation of these sites. This isevident from incidents that took place on two islands which had
recent discoveries of archaeological sites.
The ¿rst site, which is shown in Figure 2, was discovered in 2014
in Ha. Ihavandhoo. In this case the Heritage Department was
informed that some structural ruins were found during the
installation of water pipes. The island council halted the work
immediately and sought technical assistance from the Department
of Heritage. Subsequently, the path of the water pipes was changed
to avoid any damage to the structures. This island has one of thecoral stone mosques among the six mosques that were nominatedto the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list in 2013. Hence ourtechnical team has worked closely with the island community.
Due to these frequent encounters with the island people, they havedeveloped a good basic knowledge about cultural heritage. The
excavation work was carried out for few days, led by a local
archaeologist and information required for further research wascollected. The island council as well as the island community
worked closely with the technical team to uncover more aboutisland history and culture. After the investigation, the site wasback¿lled and this disappointed some enthusiastic helpers of the
project. However after explaining the negative impacts of leaving
the structures exposed, the crowd was convinced of the need.

66

The next case was the discovery of the foundation of an old mosque
from Gdh. Thinadhoo in 2016 (see Figure 3) This structure wasdiscovered while preparing the groundwork for constructing a new
mosque on the island. This new discovery stopped the constructionof the new mosque, which provoked a negative impression among
the island community towards the newly discovered site, as the
new mosque building was a desired development anticipated by theresidents. At the time there was no local archaeologist present, andthe project was led by a technical team. After the site was excavated,
future plans to display the site were discussed. With the excitementof discovering an intact foundation of an old coral stone mosque,the technical team started planning ways to develop the site tobene¿t the island. Hence to avoid repetitive excavation, the team
decided to leave the site without back¿lling until the development
plans could be put into action. However, the continuing resentment
among the island community for not getting the new mosque
exploded into vandalization of the excavated site. Regretfully, due
to a weak legislative framework for protecting and conserving
these sites, no proper actions have been taken against these crimes.
This was a huge loss and a shock for the Heritage Department, as
the site discovered in the island had a similar typology to otherancient coral stone mosques and could have been very useful forthe ongoing research work for the coral stone mosque nomination
project.
These two cases portray the range of dif¿culties and challenges
that we face in safeguarding and protecting cultural heritage
sites. Being an archipelago nation, cultural heritage sites in theMaldives are scattered and are located on various islands. But
the Department, responsible for safeguarding heritage andculture throughout the country, is located only on the capitalisland, Male’ City, and has limited staff. In a similar vein,
support staff are located only in a few of the islands, so regularmonitoring of all surviving heritage sites is an obstacle to be
faced. The centralized system of managing cultural heritage sites
is not very effective for us, hence a more successful heritage
management system that can be applicable to the Maldives needs
to be studied and explored. The Maldives, as is common withother developing nations, faces budgetary constraints and also
conserving cultural heritage is not considered a high priority,
which results in a lack of funding for the Department. Hence,
funds allocation and manpower in this ¿eld are very limited.
Especially in a ¿eld like this, there are various sets of technicalexpertise and knowledge that are required, but currently there are
only a handful of people with such quali¿cations and experience.
Moreover, training and education related to the cultural heritage¿eld are not available in the Maldives and higher education
scholarship opportunities in this ¿eld to train abroad are rare.

Furthermore, the scope of career growth in the cultural heritage¿eld is perceived to be narrow, and this has created an enormous
challenge for efforts to increase the workforce of the Department.

Consequently, people started to become more knowledgeable andstarted to realize that most of the customs and beliefs that wereconsidered as traditions contradicted the religion of Islam. So manyof the earlier practices were stopped, resulting in the bond between
the people and cultural heritage sites to diminish. It has gradually
become forbidden to treat these sites in a way that was deemed to
be in conÀict with modern religious beliefs, and the sites consistingof shrines, tombs and memorials are no longer given the same
respect. Therefore, subsequent generations never developed such a
relationship with these cultural heritage sites. The archaeologicalsites were no longer maintained well and the people lost their loveand respect for the sites. The islanders never fully understood thesigni¿cance of these sites, which were usually from the Buddhistera (see Figure 4). Maldivians today, being Muslims, ¿nd it hard to
relate to these archaeological sites and feel reluctant to preserve andpromote them. New archaeological sites and artefacts are still being
discovered each year on different islands during development
projects. Some sites consist of foundations of old mosques, temples,
statues, bathing tanks, and so on.
Each cultural heritage site has multiple stakeholders withoverlapping mandates to protect and preserve these sites. Eachstakeholder role remains ambiguous leaving conÀicts andconfusion. Hence, these sites are not well preserved and restored
due to confusion in roles and responsibilities. Currently, thegovernment solely takes the ownership of the cultural heritage site,which has put the sites under huge risk for vandalism. In the recent
few years the country has been politically unstable and some havetargeted and vandalized the heritage sites to express their frustration.
The developments as highlighted above that are ongoing in the
country for the past century have been a huge threat to thecultural heritage sites. The country’s old fabric is being peeled
off due to a lack of awareness regarding these sites. Reserving
space for cultural heritage assets in a land-scarce country such as
the Maldives is a challenge.

FIGURE 1. Coral stone Demon Statue Head discovered in L. Gan
in 2018 (Source: Maldives Heritage Survey Project)

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Apart from this, excavations of many archaeological sites of theMaldives have been conducted without any future management
plans. As these sites were left exposed to the sun and rain, most of
the structures have deteriorated due to weathering. Being abandoned
for years, some sites now have thick growths of vegetation and haveeven turned into piles of rubble. Sadly, some of the islanders havemisinterpreted these sites as dumps of debris and have picked thesestones and used them to build their houses. In earlier days, eachisland lived as a much more closed community and the heritage that
had been left by their forefathers was considered a source of pride.
Many traditions, beliefs and customs were associated with thesecultural heritage sites; hence they were honoured and treated withrespect. Later on, with the ease of transportation and better healthand education facilities available elsewhere, people started
migrating to different islands seeking a better life style.

FIGURE 2. Ha. Ihavandhoo site discovered in 2014 (From
Department of Heritage server)

FIGURE 3. Gdh. Thinadhoo site discovered in 2016 (From
Department of Heritage server)

FIGURE 4. K. Kaashidhoo kuruhin’na tharaagandu (Buddhist
monastery; from Maldives National Archives)

67

New Zealand
Problems and Needs for the Protection and Preservation of Archaeological Sites in
New ZealandEleanor Jeneen Sturrock, Archaeologist
Lower Northern Area Of¿ce, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga

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This report identi¿es the problems and needs in relation to theprotection, preservation and management of archaeological sites
in New Zealand. New Zealand is located in the southwest Paci¿cand there are over 60,000 archaeological sites recorded on thetwo main islands (North and South). Archaeological sites areprotected by the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act
2014, which provides for the identi¿cation, protection,
preservation and conservation of historical and cultural heritage.
The Act de¿nes an archaeological site as any place in New
Zealand (including buildings, structures or shipwrecks) that was
associated with pre-1900 human activity, where there is evidence
relating to the history of New Zealand that can be investigatedusing archaeological methods. The following problems andneeds identi¿ed in relation to archaeological sites are based on
my perspective as an archaeologist for the Heritage New ZealandPouhere Taonga (HNZPT) Lower Northern Area of¿ce inTauranga, located in the Bay of Plenty region on the east coast of
the North Island. In the Bay of Plenty, there are over 8000 sites
recorded but with many more yet to be discovered. Most of thearchaeological sites relate to the settlement of the indigenous
population, Maori, and common types found in the area include:
pa (forti¿ed Maori villages or defended settlement), shell midden(refuse from shell ¿sh processing for subsistence), hangi (earth
ovens), gardening soils, terraces, pits (food storage for crop
cultigens) and a variety of artefacts made from wood, bone andvarious lithic material. Later historic sites relate to European
settlement of the area dating from the mid 1800’s.
Problem 1: Limited Public Recognition and Appreciation
In general, the New Zealand public has limited knowledge andunderstanding of archaeology. This is in part because of thenature of the archaeological record itself. In comparison to therest of the world, New Zealand has a relatively young history. It
is one of the last land masses to be populated by humans, withpeople migrating from East Polynesia approximately 700 years
ago (Higham and Jones 2004). As such, some people do notthink New Zealand is ‘ancient enough’ to have archaeology andare unaware of the signi¿cant archaeologicallandscapes found across the country. Another factor that
contributes to the lack of understanding is the condition or
physical characteristics of the archaeology itself. For mostarchaeological sites, the organic material, including wood andvegetation that was used to construct structures was either
removed once no longer in use or after abandonment hasdeteriorated. In addition, various post-depositional processes,
including modern farming practices such as ploughing havecontributed to the concealment of archaeology. This means that68

a large percentage of archaeological sites are subsurface, with novisibility on the ground surface. The limited visibility and partial
preservation of sites means people can have a hard time
understanding what they are looking at and therefore recognisingor appreciating it. Unfortunately, in some cases this can result in
the unauthorised destruction or modi¿cation of archaeologicalsites. It is illegal to ‘modify, damage or destroy’ an archaeologicalsite without an authority consent issued by HNZPT. An authority
mitigates the loss of the archaeological record througharchaeological investigation and recording.
Problem 2: Urbanisation - Development Pressure
Development is one of the key problems in New Zealand causing
the loss of archaeological sites. As New Zealand’s population
grows, we are seeing an increasing amount of urbanisation. Overthe last decade there has been a signi¿cant push by thegovernment to accommodate this growth. As a result, large areasof complex archaeological landscapes are becoming more
fragmented, modi¿ed and destroyed. To get some perspective on
the situation, the HNZPT Tauranga of¿ce processed 70
archaeological authorities for the year July 2014 to July 2015
and over the following years this has increased substantially,
jumping to 155 authorities for July 2017 to June 2018. Thissigni¿cant increase has mostly been the result of residential
development, horticultural development and infrastructural
upgrades (such as roading and utilities). In the Bay for Plenty,
large areas of land once used for pastoral farming or horticultural
practices are now being ‘zoned residential’ and subject tointensive development. One example of the mass scale ofdevelopment that is occurring, and the resulting loss ofarchaeological sites is on the Omokoroa Peninsula in the Western
Bay of Plenty. Archaeology has been found for almost all theauthorities issued, mostly relating to MƗori settlement including
horticultural practices. Of note, was that for most of theseproperties there were no previously recorded sites. Again, this is
in part because of the subsurface nature of archaeology in the
Bay of Plenty, which in turn makes it dif¿cult to provide for the
avoidance and preservation of sites prior to the commencementof development works that have otherwise already received theirconsent.
Problem 3: Environmental Concerns
Environmental processes and weather events can have asigni¿cant impact on the preservation of archaeological sites.
New Zealand is made up of islands and has the 9th longest
coastline in the world. A vast majority of archaeological sites arenear the coast, particularly shell midden or sites within sanddune environments which are vulnerable to coastal processes

These problems which are causing damage and the loss ofarchaeological sites have long been recognised by the New
Zealand archaeological community (Walton and O’Keeffe 2004)
and efforts are being made by HNZPT, the New ZealandArchaeological Association (NZAA) and individuals to
overcome these. The following needs relate to what measures arebeing carried out to combat these problems and what is neededin the future for better protection and preservation ofarchaeological sites.
Need 1: Professional Development
It is important for heritage specialists to continuing training
throughout their professional career by attending training
courses, conferences and building upon their skill sets. Keeping
up with the latest advances in technology is just one example.
New information technologies provide archaeologists access totools that can ef¿ciently record information with improved
precision and can offer better management tools to communicate
and share results. Today, the application of information
technology is a means to improve understanding and publicaccess to cultural heritage. For example, geographic information
systems (GIS) have had a signi¿cant impact on aspects ofarchaeological method and theory; the way archaeologists
record, analyse, and represent archaeological data and provide
an opportunity to change the way others perceive thearchaeological record (McCoy 2017). One example of theapplication of this technology is the New Zealand Archaeological
Association’s archaeological site recording scheme (NZAA
ArchSite). ArcSite is an online database that contains informationfor over 60,000 recorded archaeological sites across New
Zealand. Each site has been mapped and an associated site record
form provides further information. This information is accessible
to all and is a primary resource used for both research andmanagement purposes.
Need 2: Dissemination of Information
To achieve better protection and appreciation it is important tofacilitate the dissemination of information to interested
stakeholders, communities and the public. It is about heritage
specialists being proactive with their approach rather than being
reactive. This can be achieved with:-Site Interpretation. Communicating the history of a place onsite is vital for on-going recognition of signi¿cant cultural
heritage. This can be something as simple as signage. For
example, Otumoetai Pa is a signi¿cant landmark in thehistory of Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty. The pa was occupied
by Maori for many centuries and later considered the historic
capital of Tauranga. The last remaining section of the pa wasmade a historic reserve by the local council in 2004 and pou(traditional Maori carved wooden poles) have been erected at
the entrance to the reserve and interpretation panels installed
throughout the reserve to convey this rich cultural heritage tovisitors. This work was carried out as part of a joint project
between the local council, tangata whenua (local Maori) and
HNZPT. To ensure the cultural, archaeological and historicvalues are looked after, conservation and management plans
have been implemented.

-

Site management or conservation plans. Are a resource usedby private land owners and local authorities who manage
archaeological sites by providing operational guidelines for
day to day activities. This is to ensure the preservation andprotection of sites on a long-term basis, and at the same time
maintain authenticity and that the values of the site arerespected (Jones 2007).

-

Public Engagement. Organising events open to the public toattend or participate is a way to celebrate heritage as part of acommunity and society. One of the most recent ways that thisis coming to fruition in New Zealand is through ‘Archaeology
Week’. This yearly, week-long event is coordinated by the
NZAA with the aim of increasing public awareness andhighlighting the importance of protecting New Zealand’sarchaeological heritage. There are a variety of events whichhappen throughout the country including public talks,
lectures, guided heritage walks, displays of artefacts andtours of archaeological sites.

Group Training Course (Country Report)such as wave action that cause erosion and consequently the lossof archaeological material out of situ. Another environmental
concern is natural hazards. In the Bay of Plenty earthquakes area threat and because of this, buildings are required to comply
with certain safety criteria as part of risk management. In thecentral business district (CBD) of Tauranga on the Te Papa
peninsula several older buildings, with some retainingarchitectural elements built prior to 1900, are now being subject
to strengthening works. For some buildings, the strengthening
works are not economical, and owners see an opportunity to redevelop the site and therefore decide to demolish the building.
Consequently, this is having a Àow-on effect on the preservationof archaeological sites. Although archaeologists are provided
with the opportunity to build up a better picture of the history of
the Tauranga township, there is also the physical loss ofarchaeological remains, both pre-1900 buildings and featuresthat relate to early Maori settlement and later European settlement
and military occupation of the Te Papa peninsula.

Need 3: Protection and Preservation of Archaeological
Records
One of the biggest needs facing the archaeological profession
today is ensuring the long-term protection and preservation ofarchaeological records. These records are a key part in preserving
New Zealand’s cultural heritage. To help achieve this the
HNZPT Lower Northern of¿ce is currently in the process ofdeveloping an overall research framework structure for
implementing regional research plans as part of the archaeologicalauthority consenting process. One of the main objectives is todevelop a sustainable archaeology information management
system that improves access to data sets, the analysis of
information and the preservation, integration and use of data. It
is critical to promote better digital archiving practices in New

69Group Training Course (Country Report)

Zealand and facilitate the re-use of data for non-destructive
analysis and research. Regional scale research frameworks canalso be tailored in response to speci¿c problems identi¿ed. For
example, research can be directed towards identifying areas at
risk of costal erosion and ensure signi¿cant sites on the coast canbe managed appropriately; such as investigating the site before it
disappears or measures to protect the site from further erosion.
Another important aspect of archaeological research is being
able to draw together the results of multiple excavations into awider scale synthesis to generate new narratives that can bedisseminated to the wider public. Ultimately, the aim of theframework is to ensure any future archaeological work will
support policy development, standards of practice and to makeinformed decisions regarding the protection and preservation ofarchaeological sites.
Conclusion
This report provided a brief introduction to legislation that
protects and manages historical and cultural heritage in New
Zealand. Examples from Tauranga illustrated some of the
problems in relation to the archaeological record and in response
different needs that will help to achieve better protection andpreservation of archaeological sites in the future.

Bibliography
Higham, T. and Jones, M. 2004. Chronology and Settlement. In
L. Furey and S. Holdaway, ed. Change Through Time: 50 Yearsof New Zealand Archaeology, 1st ed. Auckland: New ZealandArchaeological Association, pp. 215-234.
Jones, K.L. 2007. Caring for Archaeological Sites: Practical
Guidelines for protecting and managing archaeological sites in
New Zealand. Wellington: Science & Technical Publishing,Department of Conservation.
McCoy, M. 2017. Geospatial Big Data and archaeology:
Prospects and Problems too great to ignore. Journal ofArchaeological Science, 84: 74-94.
New Zealand Archaeological Association Incorporated, (2017),
New Zealand Archaeology Week 2018. Available at https://nzarchaeology.org/news-events/national-archaeology-week
New Zealand Archaeological Association Site Recording
Scheme, (2009). ARCHSITE Archaeological Site Recording
Scheme. Available at http://www.archsite.org.nz/
Walton, T. and O’Keefe, M. 2004. Archaeological Heritage
Management. In L. Furey and S. Holdaway, ed. Change ThroughTime: 50 Years of New Zealand Archaeology, 1st ed. Auckland:
New Zealand Archaeological Association, pp. 263-282.

FIGURE 1. Otumoetai Pa Historic Reserve, Tauranga. Photo: E.Sturrock 2018.

70

Papua New Guinea
Cultural heritage protection and restoration activities in Papua New Guinea:
Problems and needs
Jason Kariwiga, Teaching Fellow
Anthropology, Sociology & Archaeology Strand, School of Humanities and Social Science, University of Papua
New Guinea

PNG is also an economic power on the rise, as shown by its
impending role of hosting the 2018 Asia-Paci¿c Economic
Cooperation (APEC) Leader’s Summit in November. However,despite the country’s increasingly global presence, the close
cultural connections, coupled with the country’s rapid economic
growth in its various forms and associated impacts, has further
highlighted the need for proper management and protection of
the cultural sites that mean so much to everyday Papua New
Guineans.
The problems associated with (the lack of) cultural heritage
protection in PNG can be seen at three different levels:
community, bureaucratic, and national.
At the community level there are two main issues; ¿rstly, there isa lack of knowledge or clear understanding by ordinary Papua
New Guineans regarding who to turn to for the protection of
their sacred sites if and when those sites are threatened. While
this may seem unlikely in today’s Internet and globalized world,

FIGURE 1. Unattended and unsecured chemicals left out in the
open hills behind Palmalmal, Jacquinot Bay, Feb 2015. Photo:
Nakanai Caves Cultural Heritage Project/J. Kariwiga

keep in mind that only 13% of PNG’s 7.6 million people live inurban areas with likely access to better information, and although
the United Nations lists adult literacy rates at 64.2% (United
Nations Development Programme, n.d.a), this statistic is
calculated on whether a person can, “with understanding, both
read and write a short simple statement on everyday life” (United
Nations Development Programme, n.d.b). Thus there is a lack of
information ¿ltering through to communities, especially in therural parts of PNG. Secondly, and from my own experience,
there is a misunderstanding of the purpose and role of archaeology
as a discipline. For instance, there have been many times when
we have had to clarify to locals that we were not looking for goldwhen digging on their land. On another occasion, I recall aparticular instance in 2009 when a national member of ourparliament, while hosting a congratulatory lunch for our teamwhich had just excavated the Kosipe site in the central highlands(Summerhayes et. al, 2010), now known to be 44–49,000 years
old, made the comment that his people were the “¿rst” Papua
New Guineans to settle (New Guinea); here then, he was usingarchaeology to make a (favorable) political statement. Whether
spoken in jest or not, it shows an uncertainty around archaeology’srole as one which is dedicated to the production of knowledge
for its own sake. Whilst these examples may seem innocuous,
they speak to a more concerning trend, i.e., that the role and aims
of archaeology are still misunderstood by many Papua New
Guineans.

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Cultural heritage management and protection is an important
issue at all levels of Papua New Guinean (PNG) society. Thiscan easily be seen in the country’s many (similar) claims tobeing home to, for example, “800 scattered tribes in a dif¿cultterrain…,” as recently articulated by our Deputy Prime Minister
Charles Abel.1 These individual tribes have their own uniquecultures and traditions, which are still strongly cherished today(indeed, the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority’s slogan is“Papua New Guinea—a million different journeys”2). Hence
traditional culture, cultural sites and livelihood are very muchintertwined.

At a bureaucratic level, I again see two issues. The ¿rst is thelack of enforcement of cultural heritage protection laws by
responsible authorities. One of the custodians of cultural heritage
in the country, the National Museum and Art Gallery (NMAG),FIGURE 2. Nutu Lili site. Iggie Matapia and others showing JimSpecht, Ben Christiansen, and Matthew Kelly rock engravings,
Jacquinot Bay, Feb 2015. Photo: Nakanai Caves Cultural
Heritage Project/J. Kariwiga

71

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72

is more often than not understaffed, underfunded and with noclear leadership, due largely to politics; for instance, a permanent
appointment to the position of Director (of NMAG) was pending
for almost a year until the recent appointment this August.
However this uncertainty in key institutions and funding
problems has sometimes led to blatant Àaunting of cultural
heritage laws. For example, a foreign construction company inthe capital Port Moresby was responsible for destroying Allied
bunkers and gunnery sites that were used in the defense of Port
Moresby during the Second World War to make way for property
development in 2016 (“Demolition of War Relics Clari¿ed,”2016). The destruction took place despite of¿cial protests fromthe NMAG. This example leads me to the second issue, which isthe apparent lack of coordination and cooperation between thesegovernment agencies, including law enforcement of¿cers andpolicy makers. An instance of this is illustrated in the case of the“Swamp Ghost,” a B-17E Flying Fortress that was ditched after
a bombing mission in 1942 on New Guinea’s north coast. Lying
idle and intact for more than 60 years, it was removed by an
American salvager in 2006 (Darnton, 2007) and eventuallyfound its way overseas. All of this was despite concerns by somenational leaders that the sale (for US 111, 000 by the state) andremoval of the aircraft was illegal, with two of them stating that“the PNG Museum took no steps to protect the property of thecitizens of PNG, but actively engaged in an illegal sale withcomplete disregard to that ownership” (“Anger that PNG
Government has given Swamp Ghost salvagers the green light,”
2008).

FIGURE 3. UPNG archaeology students, excavations inbackground and sieving in foreground, Motupore Island, Aug
2018. Photo: UPNG Archaeology Lab Group/K. Sesuki

FIGURE 4. Kopkop College students listening attentively to UPNG
Masters candidate Teppsy Beni (pointing), while Jim Allen sievesin foreground, Aug 2018. UPNG Archaeology Lab Group/K.
Sesuki

FIGURE 5. Pundimbung rockshelter, Auwim, Arafundi region. Notethe stencils of the limestone face, and the sheer drop on the rightof picture. June 2018. Photo: Papuan Past Project/J. Kariwiga

FIGURE 6. Vincent Kewibu (left) with local Gubini clan member
observing rock art. Laloki, April 2016.
Photo: UPNG Archaeology Lab Group/J. Kariwiga

At the national level, there are a number of pressing issues thathave a direct impact upon the proper enforcement of cultural
heritage laws in PNG. Foremost are the regular cuts ingovernment funding to numerous government agencies over theyears, not the least of which include those responsible for overall
cultural heritage management and archaeology in the country:
the NMAG, the Conservation and Environment Protection
Authority (CEPA), and the National Cultural Commission(NCC). The second issue concerns political interference orinaction in the running of the abovementioned agencies. As
previously noted, the current Director of the NMAG has been
there on an acting basis for close to a year now (“National
Museum chaos exposes cultural treasures,” 2018), with no newsof a permanent appointment anytime soon. Thirdly, there is athreat to cultural heritage protection from the large foreign

For the problems described above, there are a number ofsolutions that can help alleviate and at the same time strengthencultural heritage protection in the country.
Firstly, there is the need for stronger law enforcement from therespective stakeholder agencies, including law enforcement, butalso through educational institutions such as UPNG. The lawsthat govern cultural heritage themselves – primarily the National
Cultural Property (Preservation) Act 1965 and the War Surplus
Material Act 1952 – are quite strong and clear regarding what is
expected in terms of protection and restoration. Hence, improved
enforcement and adherence from all concerned stakeholders will
prevent similar situations as the Swamp Ghost incident fromoccurring again.
Secondly, and connected to the ¿rst point above, is the need formore trained cultural heritage of¿cers working in the stakeholder
government agencies in order that the appropriate skills andexpertise be applied towards the enforcement and managementof culturally relevant sites. The former Chief Archaeologist at
the NMAG, Herman Mandui, writing some twelve years ago(Mandui 2006), pointed out that there is a shortage of trained
staff and lack of coordination among concerned governmental
agencies to implement cultural heritage laws. This is still verymuch the case today. Personally, this is where I see institutions
such as UPNG playing a major role. Indeed, UPNG is the only
higher education institute in the country that houses anarchaeology department. It is the only institution in the worldthat has university courses solely dedicate to teaching PNG
archaeology and cultural protection. Whilst many of our
graduates are already holding key positions in agencies such as

the NMAG and CEPA, there is always room for more. Earlier inAugust this year, UPNG Archaeology ran its annual Motupore
Island Field School over two weeks; Motupore is located 16 km
east of Port Moresby. This year we had about 20 volunteer
undergraduates participate over two weeks, living on the islandand carrying out excavations while learning about archaeologicalmethods and theory (see Figure 3). In addition, we had a visit
from a group of young school students, who were all quite eager
to learn about archaeology (see Figure 4).
Thirdly, PNG needs more protected areas, recognized andprotected by law and thus outside the approach of companies inmining, petroleum, oil palm and other extractive industries.
Besides the Nakanai Caves Cultural Heritage Project, I am alsopart of a separate team that is using genetics and archaeology todetermine who were the ¿rst colonizers of the island of New
Guinea; the Papuan Past Project is a collaboration between the
Université de Toulouse, Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle,
the NMAG, and UPNG, amongst others.
This year between May and June, team members visited theremote Arafundi River area in the Sepik region in the northwestof PNG. This area is one of the more unique regions in PNG inthat it is home to extensive rock art sites. The art, largely stencils
of human hands (but also shell valuables, cassowary daggers,
large leaves), was created by spraying/spiting red, yellow ororange clay onto these objects on the sides of sheer limestone
cliffs high up in the mountains (see Figure 5).

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multinational corporations that operate in the various resource
development industries, especially those that demand theclearance of large tracts of land (e.g., oil palm, mining, andlogging). Not all of these corporations adhere to cultural heritagelaws. For instance, I am a member of the Nakanai Caves Cultural
Heritage Project, a joint collaboration between different
institutions including James Cook University, the Australian
National University, the Australian Museum, Extent Heritage,
and the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). This project
began in 2013 and aims to document and integrate the naturaland cultural values of the Nakanai Caves in Pomio, East New
Britain; this is in preparation for a cultural landscape World
Heritage listing nomination. The ¿rst time I visited the area wasin February 2015; the hills behind the main town are home tolarge oil palm plantations, run by a foreign company. Not only
was there the expected environmental damage to the land (seeFigure 1), speci¿cally, hectares of forest stripped for thispurpose, but many cultural sites were also destroyed. One
positive aspect to come about as a direct result of the project’s
work was that we were able, in November last year, to have threearchaeological sites, including a rock engraving site close to an
oil palm plantation called Nutu Lilia (see Figure 2), all added tothe process of being gazetted by the NMAG, meaning they arebeing put onto the country’s national heritage list for protection.

In the opinion of Paul Gorecki, who was one of the ¿rst
archaeologists to record some of the hundreds of rock art sites in
the region in the 1980s, this area “constitute[s] the greatest
example of rock art in the whole of Melanesia” (Gorecki &Jones, 1987, p. 3).
Gorecki and Jones go on to make the case that because of this,the whole area should be declared as National Cultural Property
by the NMAG, and thus begin an “effective and comprehensive
plan of protection and management” (p. 4). In the years since,nothing of the kind has happened except for one major expedition
to record more sites in 2008 (Edwards & Sullivan, 2008) until
our visit. Personally, they are some of the most beautiful art I
have seen, and I believe that declaring this area as protected will
go a long way in helping to safeguard them.
Finally, there is a need to involve local communities in the actualarchaeological process. In this way, local communities not only
feel empowered and are understanding the importance andreasons for recording and preserving sites, but they can also
contribute directly to their own stories. This can be achieved byeither creating educational programs aimed at schools and local
communities at large, and/or involving the communities in actual
excavations on their land. This has the effect of informing awider audience. For example, in 2016, UPNG Archaeology wasapproached by clan leaders of a limestone quarry outside of Port
Moresby. The clan was concerned that blasting at the quarry, by73

a foreign company, would destroy or damage some of theirculturally signi¿cant sites in the immediate area. The clan asked
that we carry out archaeological surveys to record and ascertain
the signi¿cance of their sites (see Figure 6), the results of which
they would use as proof the foreign company should not encroach
upon certain areas. This shows what can be achieved whenknowledgeable communities work in partnership witharchaeologists and trained cultural heritage of¿cers.

Group Training Course (Country Report)
74

Notes
1
Speech by the Hon. Charles Abel, Deputy Prime Minister andTreasurer of Papua New Guinea, delivered address at the Lowy
Institute, Sydney, on Monday 18 June 2018.Available from<https://www.lowyinstitute.org/publications/speech-honcharles-abel-deputy-prime-minister-and-treasurer-papua-newguinea>2
http://www.papuanewguinea.travel/
References
Anger that PNG Government has given Swamp Ghost salvagers
the green light. (2008). Radio New Zealand. Retrieved fromhttps://www.radionz.co.nz/international/paci¿c-news/179304/
anger-that-png-government-has-given-swamp-ghost-salvagersthe-green-light
Darnton, J. (October. 2007). Swamp ghosts. Retrieved fromhttps://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/swampghosts-163952669/
Demolition of War Relics Clari¿ed. (2016, June). EMTV.
Retrieved from http://www.emtv.com.pg/demolition-of-war-

relics-clari¿ed/
Edwards, E. & Sullivan, N. (2008). Preliminary report of the
Cruz Mayor Rock Art Expedition to Papua New Guinea, MayJune, 2008. An Explorers Club Flag 83 Expedition.
Gorecki, P. & Jones, R. (1987). A new rock art province in New
Guinea. Internal report not for circulation October 15, 1987.
Department of Prehistory, Research School of Paci¿c Studies.
Canberra: Australian National University.
Mandui, H. (2006). What is the Future of our Past? Papua New
Guineans and Cultural Heritage. In I. Lilley (Ed.), Archaeologyof Oceania: Australia and the Paciﬁc Islands, pp. 379-382.
Malden, MA: Blackwell Publishing.
National Museum chaos exposes cultural treasures. PNGi.
(February 2018). Retrieved from <http://pngicentral.org/reports/
national-museum-chaos-exposes-cultural-treasures>
Summerhayes, G. R., Leavesley, M., Fairbairn, A., Mandui, H.,
Field, J. Ford, A., & Fullagar, R. (2010). Refocusing theBoundaries: Human Occupation, Environmental Impacts andUse of Pandanus and Dioscorea in Highland Papua New Guinea
from 49–44,000 years ago. Science 330: 78-81.
United Nations Development Programme. (n.d.a). Papua New
Guinea: Human Development Indicators. Retrieved from:<http://hdr.undp.org/en/countries/pro¿les/PNG>.
United Nations Development Programme. (n.d.b). Humandevelopment reports-Adult literacy rate (% ages 15 and older).
Retrieved from: <http://hdr.undp.org/en/indicators/101406>.

Uzbekistan
Registration and Conservation of Archaeological Sites of Uzbekistan
Hikmatulla Hoshimov, Specialist
Prehistoric Period Department, Institute of Archaeological Research of the Academy of Sciences of the Republicof Uzbekistan

deliberate vandalism.

The Institute for archaeological research has registered morethan 9,000 monuments and archeological sites in the territory of
Uzbekistan.

Grants for expenses related to archaeological excavations insmaller, private development projects are considered to be an
important tool for the preservation of archaeological heritage.
Another important tool in this respect is up-to-date registers ofvarious types of cultural monuments and sites. In Samarkand andin other regions of Uzbekistan registers that contain informationon the cultural heritage and the environment have been integrated
into a single database. It is also important to give everyone whocomes into contact with archaeological monuments and sites
suf¿cient information and make them aware of the valuable
cultural heritage.

The register of monuments and sites includes about 8,645
archaeological monuments and objects at about 4,000 locations.
However, there are large uncultivated and mountainous areasthat have not yet been investigated. Research has shown that
there may be as many as 500 unknown archaeological monuments
or objects that have not been registered. The breakdown of sites
by region is shown in Table 1.

Table 1 Archaeological Sites by Region in Uzbekistan
RegionSites
Samarkand
1,460
Jizzah302
Andijan
222
Namangan
122
Ferghana
177
Tashkent
676
Surxandarya
1,898
Bukhara1,675
Kashkadarya
1,325
Xorezm3,456
Navoiy206
Sirdarya
204
Autonomous Republic of Karakalpakistan 378
Some archaeological monuments and sites are easily visible, forexample burial mounds, pitfall traps and drift fences, charcoal
pits and hill forts. Others are more dif¿cult to ¿nd because they
are hidden under peat, earth and rock, such as Stone Age dwellingsites, iron working sites and some rock art sites.
We constantly receive reports on the destruction and loss ofarchaeological monuments. In most cases, agriculture is thereason for damage causing archaeological monuments and sites
to be lost or destroyed.
Other activities with a major impact on land use, such as building
and road construction, also damage and destroy culturalmonuments and sites, as well as insuf¿cient information and

The Cultural Heritage Act provides strong protection for culturalmonuments, but this is not enough to give cultural monuments
the protection they need. Monuments and sites are illegally
damaged or destroyed both deliberately and accidentally.

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In 1993 Uzbekistan became an active State Party to the World
Heritage Convention, with four cultural World Heritage sites
currently inscribed (Bukhara, Itchan Kala, Samarkand, andShakhrisyabz). The inscriptions were accompanied bypromotional activities such as TV and radio programs and therelease of special coins and stamps.

Interventions at archaeological sites
The Institute of Archaeological Research of the Academy of
Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan has an extensive
collection of unpublished archaeological reports resulting fromsite surveys, excavations, research programs and archaeologicalauthorities. In the collection there are over 1700 volumes of
documents from 1938 until the present.
Professional training and capacity building is one of thecomponent parts of the educational process leading to betterknowledge of World Heritage. World Heritage educationembraces a series of methods to develop interest and involvement
among young people regarding heritage issues in general andWorld Heritage issues in particular. In the Asia-Paci¿c region,
the percentage of young people in the total population of acountry is higher than the world average. Consequently, if
integrated into school curricula and started at an early stage, theimpact of World Heritage education on the long-termpreservation of humankind’s precious heritage could besubstantial, and needs to be explored further.
New technologies for the presentation and promotion of World
Heritage
On-site presentation of World Heritage properties can beenhanced through multimedia stations and interactive touch
screens. On-site access to the property’s website can also be aneasy way of providing additional and varied information tovisitors. Electronic publications and free distribution of CDROMs further promote World Heritage properties off-site. Once75

Group Training Course (Country Report)

the infrastructure is acquired and the IT skills developed,
electronic dissemination of information becomes an inexpensive
and attractive way of presenting and promoting a site’s unique
heritage. National authorities and site managers who arebene¿ting from these electronic means of promotion include
those in Cambodia, China, Australia and New Zealand, where
there is a very proactive attitude towards new technologies. The
long-term requirements of conservation and management ofWorld Heritage may also be accommodated via electronic ordigital tools. Digitalization of archives and important documents
secure the institutional memory of a site and assists site managers
in analyzing previous trends in conservation and management of
the site they are administering. In the Asian region, Indonesia
has taken the lead in digitalizing archived information.
Development of databases for management and monitoring
purposes should also be encouraged. Visitor data systems, suchas those in Australia, or the Central Asian Rock computer
database developed by Kazakhstan in collaboration with
UNESCO and the Norwegian Funds-in-Trust, and the Urban
Management information system used for Kathmandu Valley in
Nepal, are examples of how new technologies can positively
enhance understanding of World Heritage properties, while atthe same time assisting management authorities in keeping trackof the site’s institutional memory.
Geographical Information Systems
Since 1995, UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre and the
UNESCO Regional Adviser for Culture in the Asia-Paci¿cRegion have been conducting a pilot program in ¿ve cities inSoutheast Asia (extended to South Asia), designed to involvethe entire city in the conservation and protection process.
Below are excerpts from the report prepared by the UNESCO
Regional Advisor for Culture in the Asia-Paci¿c region
concerning the implementation of the pilot program, known
as “LEAP – Integrated Community Development and Cultural
Heritage Site Preservation in Asia and the Paci¿c throughLocal Effort,” with particular reference to the use of GIS.
Developing practical, easy-to-use, yet state-of-the-art
management tools and training local managers in the skills to
use the tools are essential components of any successfulprogram of local community management of heritage sites.
The goal is developing easy-to use management tools such as
GIS.
GIS is the most common non-destructive mapping techniqueused by the Asia-Paci¿c States Parties. Ten percent of thecultural World Heritage management authorities and 34.4% of
the natural and mixed World Heritage management authorities
declare they use GIS for management and monitoring purposes.
The States Parties currently using GIS include Iran, India, Nepal,
Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam,
China and Australia. Still, approximately 30% of the site-speci¿creports do not answer the question about their use of GIS, which
could either mean poor knowledge of the terminology or lack ofinterest in and/or awareness of such techniques. There is a strong
will among some of the Asia-Paci¿c States Parties to develop

76

their capacities in GIS.
Before even considering the training needs in these usefultechnologies in the domain of management and monitoring ofWorld Heritage, one must consider the basic needs in equipment,
consisting of appropriate software, hardware and access to theInternet. Only 63.6% of the cultural site managers and 84.4% of
the natural and mixed site managers have access to PCs, and forsome, this access is only possible at the regional or nationalof¿ce of their government agency, as in India for example. This
lack of basic hardware for daily maintenance and managementof the site hinders the utilization of management databases andmore advanced information management systems (IMS).
One also should consider the discrepancies between cultural andnatural sites, in their access to and use of new information
technologies. On-site access to the Internet is gathering
momentum in the region. However, still less than 50% of culturalsites, and around 76% of natural and mixed sites, enjoy speedy
communications including electronic mail capability. Although
the site managers do not consider access to Internet a priority,
this should not be neglected as it contributes to strengthening
communications between national and local heritage conservation
agencies, and between site authorities and the international
World Heritage community.
North-East Asian State Parties are particularly interested indeveloping a network of site managers in the sub-region to shareexpertise and provide good cases in management and monitoringof their World Heritage properties. Others agree on developing
regional networks for the exchange of professionals by creating
online databases or rosters. Although new information
technologies may not be considered indispensable tools in the
management and monitoring of World Heritage properties, they
nonetheless contribute to creating a multiplier effect at the site
level by broadening the possibilities of site managers, especiallywhere sub-regional similarities could be tackled together rather
than on a national case-by-case basis.
Use of kites in archeology
Aerial photographs are an important data source in the ¿eld ofarchaeology. Indeed, this is because archaeology is spatial in its
nature; any remains of the past out of context lose their analyticalvalue without location or index. Therefore, it is quite natural thatarchaeologists have always used maps and plans, and nowadays
geo-information systems (GIS) are broadly used for recording
and structuring archaeological data. Those data, including
information on both buried and excavated materials, were mainlycollected in the ¿eld. Two elements of the data are signi¿cant:¿rstly, the spatial descriptions of the remains and secondly,
descriptions of their geographical context. Aerial photographs
provide immediate support in assessing these two elements at thesame time. Commonly, data from aerial pictures are used, atleast, additionally to the ¿eld data, if not being essential to thosedata.

addition to the basic photography techniques, we should also
give thought to the basic areas of application before considering
the potential importance and limitations of these methods. This
discussion should take into account the physical, material/
technical, administrative or other regulating inÀuences applicable
to any particular context. We should also consider the degree andpossible contexts for kites bigger than those currently operated
to be developed for use in combination with pilotless vehicles
such as drones.
Such questions in the sphere of new methodologies in restorationand conservation are not well developed in my own country –most of the projects are carried out in an unsatisfactory manner,
due to the lack of highly educated and skilled specialists in
Uzbekistan. It makes our young generation, especially myself,
worry about the future of our heritage. I believe that my country
has much more potential, and therefore, as a true patriot I wish tocontribute to the development of IT-related technology andknowledge in the restoration and conservation of archeologicalsites. In other words, taking part in this training course will
hopefully give me an opportunity to broaden my knowledge inways that will de¿nitely be useful for satisfying the needs of theyounger generation. Furthermore, it will make a priority of thepossibility of establishing collaboration between Uzbek andJapanese specialists, reaching a high level of effectiveness andmeans of mutual support and understanding, and making possible
close communication between our nations. To implement such agoal, I need to improve my leadership qualities and acquire
special knowledge in my chosen ¿eld of education, which I hope
will be possible through joining this training course for young
professionals.

Group Training Course (Country Report)

Aerial archaeology started developing rapidly after 1920, when
Antoine Poidebard made the ¿rst photographs during Àights in
the Middle East. His innovation was adopted for the use ofphotographic equipment limited to operation on an in-Àight
aircraft. Archaeologists were greatly interested in thephotographs, which are still useful. These documents are directly
related to archaeology, but their use is within limits that are wellknown by specialists. Indeed, the main portion of archaeologicalremains, which record faintly at best in such photos, require
more thorough survey for detection. The major portion of aerial
images used by archaeologists until recently were photographs
made from low-Àying planes. The on-site use of ladders ofdifferent height, or cranes or scaffolding allowed archaeologists
to get photographs from elevated viewpoints of their sites, butthese methods only allow for photographing from oblique angles
like those taken from on board airplanes. There is a signi¿cant
gap in the range of scales which archaeologists can handle bythese methods, which are not well suited for the comprehensive
zenithal photographs required for GIS to get superposition ofarchaeological data. Undoubtedly, modern advances intechnology capable of obtaining data from a distance have ¿lledin the gaps. However, there is a more simple experience in aerial
photography. It is photography from a balloon or with the use ofa kite. Such experiments took place during the early phase ofarchaeological research in foreign countries. It has also been partof our own experience for decades, in the form of photography
from captive balloons or kites. The development of simple andeasy-to-use photogrammetric software may raise interest in these
simple methods. They can provide interested people andarchaeologists themselves with structured data, which can beanalyzed according to their needs, and may reveal the strong andweak points of sites as well as their technical limitations. In

77Viet Nam
Cultural Heritage Protection and Restoration Activities in Viet Nam:
The Case of Cultural Heritage Beneath the National Assembly House of Viet Nam
Do Truong Giang, Head
Department of Information and International Cooperation, Institute of Imperial Citadel Studies, Vietnam
Academy of Social Sciences

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The Thang Long citadel was built from the autumn of 1010 byEmperor Ly Thai To, who was the founder of the Ly dynasty.
One year after he founded the dynasty in 1009, Ly Thai To
decided to move the capital from Hoa Lu to Dai La and renamed
it Thang Long. From then on, Thang Long became the mostimportant political, economic, cultural and societal center of Dai
Viet. The successive dynasties of Ly, Tran and Le continuously
built Thang Long into a prosperous and Àourishing capital for
centuries. Exposed to the ups and downs of history, the majestic
imprint of the Thang Long capital is now only visible in ancienthistorical texts. No vestiges remain above ground of most of thepalaces and pavilions, having all been destroyed in the 19th
century when the French built the new Hanoi urban center and a
new forti¿cation modeled after Vauban in this area.
After centuries of lying underground, the mysteries of the ThangLong citadel have been discovered by Vietnamese archaeologists.
From the winter of 2002 to the summer of 2004, when excavating
at the site of 18 Hoang Dieu Street, vestiges of a complex ofarchitectural foundations of ancient Thang Long’s palaces andpavilions were found. This is the ¿rst time the material imprintsof the Thang Long citadel have been clearly and accurately
displayed. From that moment, people began to know more about
the capital of Thang Long. The results of these excavations
yielded various types of architectural relics and millions ofartifacts, reÀecting the history of the continuous existence of thiscenter of power through 1300 years, starting from the Pre-ThangLong period (7th–10th centuries) to the Thang Long period(11th–18th centuries). These important ¿ndings constitute theliving history of the Thang Long capital from a thousand years
ago, and at the same time allow us to imagine part of theappearance and scale of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel during
the Ly, Tran and Le periods, along with some of the utensils andobjects used within the royal palace of Thang Long. Having aunique and universal value, the site was soon recognized by
UNESCO as World Cultural Heritage. Accordingly, such
recognition brings with it the important, necessary and long-term
tasks of preserving and promoting its value.
In 2008–2009, at the construction area of the Vietnam National
Assembly House adjacent to the site of 18 Hoang Dieu Street,
Vietnamese archaeologists continued to excavate and foundvarious types of relics, artifacts of many overlapping periods,
adding more evidence to con¿rm that this area is an integral partof the southwestern portion of Thang Long Forbidden City. This
excavation's results vividly reÀect the continuous and enduring
developmental history of the central sector of the Thang Long
Imperial Citadel. Simultaneously, this discovery has determined

78

that the National Assembly House area was once an essential andprincipal component of the southwest part of the Thang Long
capital, with its thousand years of history.
Given the great importance and signi¿cance of the archaeologicaldiscovery under the ground of National Assembly House area,
the Vietnamese Government has devised a plan to preserve andpromote the value of this heritage by extracting the archaeologicalremains from the ground entirely and then selecting important
objects for re-display in two basements of the new National
Assembly building once it is completed. Since then, thisarchaeological project for the basements of National AssemblyHouse was established and carried out by Institute of Imperial
Citadel Studies, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences. This
Exhibition project was of¿cially initiated in the second half of2011 and was completed by the end of 2016.
The general tasks of the project are as follows.
(a) The exhibition is designed as a lively archaeologicalmuseum of Vietnam, reÀecting an important, indispensable
part of Thang Long as a centerpiece of Hanoi's history andculture, and connecting harmoniously with the exhibition
room of history on the National Assembly building’s ¿rstÀoor, and serving the needs of visiting and enjoying theculture for both the people of the country and international
friends.
(b)

Typical types of relics and artifacts that were discovered
underground in the construction area of the National
Assembly House through excavation in 2008–2009 are
introduced to show vividly the history of site of the building
located in the southwest portion of ancient Thang Long
Forbidden City.

(c) The historical and cultural value of the undergroundarchaeological ¿ndings at the National Assembly buildingin the general cultural space of the Imperial Citadel ofThang Long of Hanoi are introduced and widely publicized,
along with the signi¿cant political meaning of the House of
Parliament, the highest authority of the country in the
period of renovation and integration.
(d) Contributions are thus made to promote national pride,strengthen understanding of the nation’s history andculture, create unique impressions of the National
Assembly House, and reÀect the eternal vitality of thiscenter of power in the history of the national construction
and defense of Vietnam.

In addition, also drawing from the results of research and theexperience of studying many countries around the world, we
successfully reproduced the archaeological remains under theÀoor and display them vividly as an archaeological excavation
scene. This is also a great success, because the reconstruction ofarchaeological sites for exhibition is extremely dif¿cult, andaccompanying this work is the problem of the preservation of
artifacts. This is a very new ¿eld in Vietnam today.
At the same time, in order to be able to explain in an engaging
and attractive manner the academic content being exhibited, in
addition to research and development for written explanations toaccompany the displays, with each topic we sought to apply
modern technology in the areas of lighting, mapping, and the useof holograms and multimedia to provide a more vivid andunderstandable interpretation of the content and create a worldclass exhibition.
We divide the displays into the following two main exhibition
spaces.
- Basement 2: Exhibition on the Pre-Thang Long period (7th–10th centuries).
-

Basement 1: Exhibition on the Thang Long period (11th–18th
centuries), in which the main highlights are the architecture
and the economic, cultural and social achievements of the Lydynasty.

When carrying out this project for the “Exhibition of the sites
and vestiges in the basement of the National Assembly,”
scienti¿c research was regularly planned out and considered as a
top priority within the project. During that process, the Instituteof Imperial Citadel Studies not only organized comparative
research but also collected data to clarify the value of sites andartifacts, to ensure high scienti¿c content when making thedisplay. In particular, to be able to explain the value ofarchitectural sites which are exhibited under the Àoor, we had toinvest in building many display scenarios, using lighting
technology, 3D technology, mapping and multimedia. As aresult, people can easily imagine the scale, shape and uniqueshades of the wooden architecture of the ancient Thang Long
Imperial Palace. Patterns based on the unearthed undergroundÀoors, and roo¿ng tiles which are displayed in an integrated
manner, give people a better and clearer picture of the palacearchitecture of the Ly dynasty with its beauty as before, thereby
making people feel nostalgic about the unique and large woodenarchitecture with very special rare roofs that existed at the ThangLong royal palace under the Ly dynasty. It also helps convey a
deep impression of the majestic space of palace architecture
when people enter the exhibition of the Ly dynasty.
It can be said that the greatest achievements of the project are theresult of the investment in scienti¿c research. They are the resultof ¿nding unique, daring, attractive ideas and scienti¿c solutions,the research that went into the detailed written explanations andin attractively enhancing the academic content of displays withmodern technological solutions. It is also a result of the creativelabor and great effort on the part of the staff of the Institute ofImperial Citadel Studies, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences,in researching and applying new technology and conservation
science to museums in Vietnam.

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Since taking on the task, researchers and staff members of theInstitute of Imperial Citadel Studies have made great efforts toinvest in scienti¿c research, to seek ideas and technologicalsolutions for creating a new and attractive display that is easily
accessible to the Vietnamese public, bringing pride to theVietnamese. In the process, we have conducted considerable
comparative research, collecting documents as a basis forreconstructing the form of architecture of Vietnam’s palaces.
This is a meaningful job, contributing to the promotion of thevalue of Thang Long Imperial Citadel as heritage, which had
survived only as ruins. Since then, we successfully restored the
Ly Dynasty palace architecture with 3D technology and made a
16-minute ¿lm to introduce the form of palace architecture ofVietnam during the Ly dynasty.

Since the Thang Long Citadel archaeological remains werediscovered, they have received the special attention of the entire
society. In particular, from the special value and importance ofthe site, the government decided to combine the construction of
the new National Assembly building with the exhibition of theruins of ancient Thang Long architecture into a single project.
This is a typical pattern for how to deal with conservation anddevelopment in the context of contemporary Vietnam. It can besaid that the preservation of archaeological heritage in the midstof the process of development requires nonstop creation andÀexibility in the application of scienti¿c rules to select suitable
solutions for each speci¿c site. The goal is to link the preservationof heritage with contemporary life, bring the value of heritage tothe people, serve the people and contribute to promoting
economic and social development with the message of thetransmission of these cultural heritage values throughprofessional, authentic and engaging ways, all at the same time.

79

Group Training Course (Country Report)

FIGURE 1. Preparation for exhibition (Photo credit: Bui Minh Tri)FIGURE 2. Ceramics (Photo credit: Bui Minh Tri)FIGURE 3,4. Architectural decoration (Photo credit: Bui Minh Tri)FIGURE 5,6. Stoneware (Photo credit: Bui Minh Tri)FIGURE 7. Tiles (Photo credit: Bui Minh Tri)80

FIGURE 8. Figure 8: Overview of the exhibition(Photo credit: Bui Minh Tri)

Bangladesh
Final Report of the Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural
Heritage protection in the Asia/Paci¿c Region 2018
Mohammad Golam Kawsar, Museum Manager
Independence Museum, Branch of Bangladesh National Museum, Division of Ministry of Cultural Affairs

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Introduction: Participating in the Asia-Paci¿c Cultural Centre
for UNESCO (ACCU 2018) training course, I gained a lot ofknowledge, valuable experience, techniques and skills inprotection and restoration activities for cultural heritage. The
training course was very helpful not only for me but also for myorganization and own country, as I can use the knowledge,
experience, and techniques in my job as much as possible.
The day when I landed on the soil of the most diligent andhardworking people in the world, it was a happy moment as it isthe ¿rst time for me to visit Japan. I was received by the Mr.
Nakai Isao and Ms. Suzuki Sonoko at Nara JR station andreached the hotel without any problem. In hotel lobby Ms.
Suzuki informed of the news of a coming major typhoon.
Opening ceremony: I attend the opening ceremony at the Hotel
Fujita and met the other participants and organization members
there. For the training, 16 participants were selected from 16
different countries within the Asia-Paci¿c region. On the day of
opening ceremony one participant from India could not attend
due to the typhoon. The program started with a welcome speech
by Mr. Nishimura Yasushi, Director of ACCU Nara. Mr. Gamini
Wijesuriya, a former staff member of ICCROM, and of¿cials
from the Nara prefectural and city governments were also present
at the function. Lunch was arranged on the hotel’s fourth Àoor,and we took lunch while experiencing the typhoon.
Training course lectures and activities: The training course
was scheduled from 4 September to 4 October 2018. This course
included classroom lectures, practical training, workshops, andon-site lectures on restoration, preservation, excavation, etc.
During this training we learned about designation systems for
cultural heritage and world heritage, and the relevant legislationin Japan from a lecture by Professor Inaba Nobuko, University ofTsukuba, and other experts. Mr. Gamini Wijesuriya gave a lectureon the “Preservation of Archaeological Sites: Global Trends.” Hediscussed the basic meaning and importance of archaeologicalpreservation, excavation, and conservation, and the role andresponsibilities of the ICCROM as set out in its statutes. Mr.
Joseph King, ICCROM, presented a lecture on “Research,
Analysis and Preservation of Archaeological Sites and Remains.”
He gave de¿nitions of ICCROM and other organizations such as
UNESCO, ICOM, ICOMOS, IUCN, ALESCO, and SAFTA. In
his lecture we gained knowledge of management systems,
implementation, evaluation, frameworks, planning etc.
General ideas on the Japanese conservation and preservation
system: Japanese conservation of cultural properties is very

84

successful thanks to the comprehensive Law for the Protectionof Cultural Properties. This law was initially drawn up in 1950,
and with its subsequent amendments to the designation system,
has provided a successful mechanism for, and broadened thescope of, heritage protection in Japan, which divides major
cultural properties into different levels of categories such as
National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. Mr. Nakai
Masatsugu, Senior Specialist for Cultural Properties, gave alecture on the “Preservation and Improvement of Historic Sites
in Japan: Current State and Policies.” He said that preservation isde¿ned as reliably maintaining and passing down the intrinsic
values of historic sites to future generations by ensuring adesirable state for them. We visited Byodo-in and observed thesite, its central building and modern museum. We learned
considerable knowledge about conservation science forarchaeological artefacts, mechanisms of corrosion of metal
objects, restoration of wooden artefacts with ¿lling andcolouring, etc. We attended on-side study sessions at the Umami
Tumuli (Umami-kyuryo Park), Kitora Tumulus Murals Museum,and Ishibutai Tumulus. We were introduced to Japanese ancient
culture and learned the conservation and restoration methods
used in Japan. We visited the National Museum of Ethnology
and visited many galleries and storage rooms, recognizing that itis one of the biggest modern museums in the world. We also
learned the system of conservation treatment for ethnologicalmaterials. Mr. Hidaka Shingo explained preventive conservationand the IPM (Integrated Pest Management) system. We werealso introduced to the Hyogo Prefectural Museum ofArchaeology. We enjoyed the exhibition gallery, whichdisplayed important cultural properties, and visited conservation
rooms and the storage room.
Archaeological research (excavation methods): The main tool
for archaeological research is excavation. Archaeologicalexcavation is a systematic investigation of past human remains
and activities to deduce patterns of behaviour. Ms. Jinno Megumi(Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties)
introduced excavation research methods for archaeological sites
and the classi¿cation of unearthed artefacts, which is importantfor measured drawing, restoration, etc. We visited the Imperial
Villa Garden Site. This garden of the Nara period, discovered
through an excavation conducted in 1975, is a precious cultural
heritage of Japan. We also visited Todai-ji Temple, and gainedmuch knowledge about the excavation system.
Signi¿cance of the training: This Training Course on Cultural
Heritage Protection in the Asia-Paci¿c Region wascomprehensively framed and structured to identify, analyse andeducate about issues in cultural heritage protection andrestoration. During the course, Japanese methods of conservationand preservation were the main topics. We also had theopportunity to observe a number of sites and interact withprofessionals. Most Asian countries have similar kinds ofproblems regarding conservation, which can be addressed withthis kind of discussions.

Conclusion: This training made me realize that cultural heritage
properties do not represent an issue for only one country, but are
the common property of mankind and should be protected,
conserved and restored, to be maintained and sustained for the
future. This program provided all participants with equal
opportunities to improve and upgrade their knowledge and skillsin their own work for better ef¿ciency, and study new techniques
and implement these for the conservation and restoration ofcultural heritage. This training course created a common platform
for all of us to share our professional experience and knowledge
with colleagues from other countries. This course has been of
great value for me. I have gained new ideas, techniques and moreadvanced knowledge, which will help me in understanding theconcepts of conservation of cultural properties. I will share myexperience with others in my department as part of their training.
Words of Gratitude: I would like to express my sincere
gratitude to the ACCU as well as other relevant institutions(ICCROM, UNESCO, Nara prefecture government) for theircontributing to the training. I would like to thank Mr. Nishimura
Yasushi, Director ACCU Nara, for inviting me to be a part ofthis training. My special thanks go to all of the staff of ACCU,
the lecturers and other participants. Finally, I would like toexpress my deep gratitude to my Director General, Bangladesh
National Museum, and the Secretary, Ministry of Cultural
Affairs, for recommending my name to the ACCU through theGovernment of Bangladesh.
Overall, the trip was very rewarding and I return home with lotsof new innovative ideas, good memories and new professional
friends I made during the training time.

FIGURE 1. Visited Nagaoka Palace Site in Muko City, Kyoto
prefecture, and learned about the utilization of AR at anarchaeological site.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

We visited the 8th-century Nagaoka Palace Site in Muko City,
Kyoto prefecture, and learned about the utilization at anarchaeological site of augmented reality (AR) application. We
experienced through this technology the visual space and listened
to the background of the site, learned of Muko City’s efforts, andabout the function of the application. We also learned about“Recording/Documentation of Archaeological Sites andRemains” (photography). Here in this workshop I gained lot of
valuable experience in photography. Therefore, I think with theknowledge from this course I could do some work in the ¿eld ofphotography in my country. We attend an ICOM presentationand discussion meeting held in Maizuru City, Kyoto, and gained
knowledge about global issues involving museums and local
communities, and learned how museum involvement andcooperation with the local community could be informative for
not only the museum staff but also archaeologists.

Glimpses of my journey in Japan

FIGURE 2. A discussion with members of the Nara Palace Site
Support Network.

FIGURE 3. Practicing measured drawing and taking rubbings ofearthenware.

FIGURE 4. Introduction to the Imperial Villa Garden Site excavationin progress.

Thank You, Arigato gozaimasu.

85

BhutanFinal Report, Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia-Paci¿c Region 2018, “Investigation, Preservation and Management ofArchaeological Sites”
Sonam Tenzin, Cultural Ofﬁcer
Division for Conservation of Heritage, Department of Culture, Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Acknowledgement
First of all, I would like to acknowledge the ACCU for organizing
such a wonderful training course in Nara and giving thisopportunity for Bhutan to participate. I would also like to thanktheir co-partners and many other organizations who helped uscomplete this training course successfully. I personally would
like to thank all the members of the ACCU Of¿ce staff foraccompanying us and being there for us until the end of the
training. I also would like to thank all the fellow participants forspending a wonderful time together sharing their valuableknowledge and experience.
Introduction
I am pleased to write this report as an indication of having
successfully completed the magni¿cent training course. In fact,
this training was an eye-opening opportunity for me to learn
about different sites and the management system of Japandeveloped for the protection of heritage sites, as well as aboutarchaeological sites across the Asian-Paci¿c region and globally.
This training taught us the importance of having a legal
framework which provides room to protect, promote, conserveand manage the heritage and archaeological sites.
Bhutan has a rich tradition and cultural legacy in terms oftangible and the intangible cultural heritage. The national
identity for the country is considered embodied in the centuries
old Dzongs (fortresses), temples, houses, stupas, bridges, palaces
festivals, plus the dress and also the intangible culture. Bhutan is
also known throughout the world as a country of living culture
which continues to function from centuries ago. The nation atlarge takes part in the promotion and protection of our age-long
traditions and culture, and in particular the Department ofCulture under the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs takes
responsibility for promoting and preserving the culture as acornerstone of our development philosophy of Gross National
Happiness. With this realization of our unique cultural identity,
harmonious progression on the preservation, promotion andprotection of our heritage sites has been carried out.
In addition, Bhutan has rich and undiscovered potential
archaeological sites and ruins of monuments that date back as far
as to 5th century without much deterioration both on the surface
and underground. The history of archaeology in Bhutan began
only from 1998 during the excavation of the foundations for theconstruction of the Renewable Natural Resources ResearchCentre (RNR–RC) Of¿ce building at Batpalathang valley in the
Jakar Dzongkhag (Bumthang District) central part of Bhutan.
Hence, the Division for Conservation of Heritage Sites under the86

Department of Culture was initiated for the investigation,
preservation and management of the important archaeologicalsites in the country.
Cultural heritage protection and management system ofJapan
The lectures delivered during the course and the on-site visits tothe heritage sites were the most valuable opportunity to learn
more about the quality of preservation as well as being an
introduction to historical aspects of Japan. In most of the lecturesin the classroom or on-site, we were introduced to how Japan has
instituted ways of protecting cultural heritage sites. We heard
lectures on the various types of legislation and guidelines fortangible and intangible cultural heritage protection in Japan. The
protection of heritage sites in Japan is governed by strict lawsthat are jointly supported by relevant institutions andgovernmental agencies. We learned that the protection of cultural
heritage through a proper legislative system is an important toolthat enhances the lifespan of valuable cultural heritage sites,
cultural properties, monuments, landscapes and other important
historical sites.
In Japan, we came to learn that since heritage structures aremostly built from wood, they face a diversity of issues over time.
Hence, they demand an adequate legislative framework for the
maintenance of these sites and cultural properties. The value of
cultural heritage sites and properties in Japan is considered inconservation and restoration planning and af¿rmed in the context
of the Venice Charter 1964. Therefore, this document plays acrucial role in terms of the preservation and restoration ofwooden heritage in Japan. Japan has had very comprehensive
legal documents in place starting from 1871, and the system forprotecting heritage sites dates back to Asuka period in 593 andhas continued to the current Heisei period. The history of modern
legal documents in Japan is impressive. We were informed thatthe ¿rst law, the Preservation of Ancient Artefacts (1871) wasestablished to protect cultural heritage sites and this was followedby other laws such as the Ancient Temples and Shrines
Preservation Law (1897). This law provides for the designationof historic buildings and national resources. As presented by thelecturer, the main statement is that Japanese legislation andguidelines are integrated with their national legal system andwere implemented many decades ago. Therefore, cultural
heritage sites and archaeological sites intact from the Nara period
and before are being protected, conserved and promoted throughmany different mechanisms.

The documentation and recording of cultural heritage throughphotography has added to my knowledge about how to carry out
such photographic documentation which is one of the important
methods of keeping a record of valuable cultural properties andsites. Further, on-site lectures on conservation, maintenance andmanagement of gardens was equally impressive, so that I hope
my country can implement similar developments forarchaeological sites and gardens in future.
Other experimental hands-on training, such as recording anddocumenting artefacts with measured drawing, was very toughfor me since it was my ¿rst experience. However, as we carry out

similar documentation and surveys of archaeological sites in
Bhutan, this bit of experience will help me in documenting
artefacts while surveying and documenting sites. The practice intaking rubbings was another exciting topic, although we use thisrubbing technique in xylography for printing traditional books in
Bhutan. The rubbing technique can be used for documenting
hard archaeological artefacts in order to get detailed informationof the object.
I came to learn that connectivity, awareness and sensitization to
the local community regarding the importance of heritage sites isessential in this era. As a matter of fact, the Japanese citizens
take pride in these voluntary works. In particular, Nara City
conducts several community involvement activities andeducational programs and excavation experience. This is one of
the most important subjects that I have learned until now, thatcitizens can experience excavation work at archaeological sites
in Nara City. I am impressed how this engagement of local
people in archaeological work and cultural heritage protection
could strengthen their sense of ownership in the sites andencourage them to protect their own heritage sites. Therefore,
what I have learned from this training course is very importantand relevant to my daily work and some of the techniques learned
during this training can be implemented easily when I make myway back home.
Ka-drin-chey

Thank youGroup Training Course (Final Report)

My way back home
I would like to thank the ACCU for letting me meet 15 newfriends from the Asia-Paci¿c region. This group training gave us
an opportunity to know each other and share our knowledge andideas. Further, it provided the opportunity for us to develop a
network among the participants. By attending the training, thelectures deliberated in the classroom and on-site impressed on
my mind the understanding that if my country adopted a system
like the Japanese cultural management and protection laws, theliving culture could proceed for another thousand years in the
future. In this training, I learned that Japan and Bhutan sharesimilar characteristics of wooden heritage form and design thatare very dif¿cult to manage. However, we are fortunate tocollaborate with legal experts from Japan in drafting a cultural
heritage act for my country.

Arigato Gozaimasu.

87

Cambodia
Final Report
Young Professionals Training Course on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia-Paci¿cRegion 4 September–4 October 2018
Khann Mony, Deputy Director
Division of Conservation of Monument, Department of Site, Archaeology and Conservation, National Authority
for Sambor Prei KukGroup Training Course (Final Report)

i. Introduction
The training course for young professionals on cultural heritage
protection, with participants from 16 countries of the AsiaPaci¿c region learning about survey methods for archaeologicalsites and legislation for cultural heritage protection, began on 4
September and continued until 4 October 2018. Every year, thistraining course is held by ACCU Nara in cooperation with the
Agency for Cultural Affairs, aiming at human resource
development for the protection and restoration culture heritage,
and providing lectures and practical training under the theme of“Investigation, Protection and Management of ArchaeologicalSites” at Nara National Research Institute and other sites in Naracity and elsewhere.
ii. Preservation
One could say that archaeological sites are too important to beleft to the archaeologist. At least to the archaeologist who is notalso familiar with the processes of deterioration of ancientmaterials exposed by excavation, and with methods to ensure
their protection once they have been uncovered.
This workshop focused on archaeological sites, the utilization ofcultural properties, Japanese laws about cultural property, ¿rst
aid methods to be taken at sites as the initial stage of reinforcementof artefacts, and continuing through each stage until theirremoval. We should reinforce the soil to a depth of about 2.5 cm
by placing resin and ¿berglass. This way, it is easy to remove
objects from the pit.
iii. Excavation
Excavation should be carried out in accordance with scienti¿cstandards and the recommendations de¿ned in the national
principles to be applied in the case of archaeological excavation.
Ruins must be maintained and measured as necessary for thepermanent conservation and protection of architectural features,and of discovered objects that must be removed. Furthermore,
every means must be taken to facilitate the understanding of themonument and to reveal it without ever distorting its meaning.
The imperial villa garden site of the ancient Nara capital, aSpecial Historic Site and Special Place of Scenic Beauty, is an
open exhibition of archaeological features (Imperial Villa
Garden Site). This is a garden of the Nara period discovered
through an excavation implemented in 1975. The garden islocated in the southeast corner of the imperial palace grounds.
As it may be considered to be an imperial villa-like facility or aresidence of the royal family (palace), the garden is called the“Imperial Villa Garden.” Since the garden was buried
underground for many years, the state of preservation was good88

enough for us to know the designs, gardening skills, etc., of thattime period. In that sense, the Imperial Villa Garden is anextremely valuable site.
In the education program on site excavation by community
cooperation, conducted at the Nara City Archaeological ResearchCentre, trainees acquire knowledge and techniques through thistraining course to become citizen archaeology supporters. Then,as supporters, they voluntarily participate and assist in
excavations, in the cleaning and sorting of artefacts, in research,and in the dissemination and utilization activities. The supporters
may enjoy these experiences and practices at their own pace,achieving deeper understandings of the subject, and thereby aim
towards archaeological research as citizens. In other words, thisis a model for helping citizens transition from passive learning to
independent learning. Citizen archaeology supporters contributeto cultural property protection by assisting in the protection
activities for buried cultural properties implemented by Nara city
through their support activities. Citizen archaeology supporters
also participate in the operations of exhibitions, seminars, ¿eldbrie¿ngs, etc., provide explanations about archaeology, andshare what they have learned with many other people.
iv. Restoration
The process of restoration is a highly specialized operation. Its
aim is to preserve and reveal the aesthetic and historic value ofthe monument and is based on respect for the original material
and authentic documents. It must stop at the point whereconjecture begins, and moreover any extra work which isindispensable must be distinct from the architectural composition
and must bear a contemporary stamp. The restoration in any casemust be preceded and followed by an archaeological andhistorical study of the monument.
Restoration of wooden artefacts (¿lling and colouring), such as
ancient wooden water pipes, is conducted with preservation by
the PEG method. Using epoxy putty on the wood, we can use
acrylic to paint over, and then follow a policy of colouring with
non-coloured, almost the same as the original, or darker orlighter colour than the original.
v. Conservation
The conservation of monuments is always facilitated by making
use of them for some socially useful purpose. While this is
desirable it must not change the layout or decoration of thebuilding. It is within these limits only that modi¿cation demanded
by a change of function should be considered and may beallowed. Items of sculpture, painting or decoration which form

an integral part of a monument may only be removed from it if
this is the sole means of ensuring their preservation.

With regard to the corrosion and conservation of metals artefacts,
many items are damaged due to inappropriate storage conditions,
temporary storage packaging systems, examination before
conservation treatment, temporary consolidation (post treatment
before cleaning), mechanical cleaning (in ultrasonic grinding,the selection of particle size and shape/hardness of the powder isimportant, and the proper handling of inlaid portions requires
work under the microscope, which takes a huge amount of time).
Other signi¿cant processes include the removal of chloride(halide iron), autoclave method, stabilization of bronze artefacts(chemical conversion treatment), joining with thermoplastic orthermosetting resin type adhesive, or cyclododecanone as atemporary consolidant.
vi. Museology
A museum is an institution that cares for (conserves) a collectionof artefacts and other objects of artistic, cultural, historical, or
scienti¿c importance. Many public museums make these items
available for public viewing through exhibits that may bepermanent or temporary. The largest museums are located in
major cities throughout the world, while thousands of local
museums exist in smaller cities, towns and rural areas. Museums
have varying aims, ranging from serving researchers andspecialists to serving the general public. The goal of serving
researchers is increasingly shifting to serving the general public.
There are many types of museums, including art museums,
natural history museums, science museums, war museums, andchildren’s museums.
Exhibition and storage environments in the museum should take
into account deterioration factors, the hydrothermal environment,
the temperature and humidity conditions according to thematerials, the use of light in exhibitions, exposures and effects ofother elements, and protection from insects.

The Former Imperial Audience Hall, in the ¿rst part of the Nara
period, was the most important building in the palace. The
Emperor’s throne (Takamikura) overlook the ceremonies ofcoronation and New Year’s Day. This was the largest building in
the palace, measuring 44 m in width and 20 m in depth, with 27
m in height. The building was reconstructed based uponarchaeological data and architectural studies of existing buildings
from the Nara period. The reconstruction was launched in 2001and ¿nished in 2010.
vii. Photography
Basic knowledge of photography for cultural properties centres
on digital records, having multiple choices and not choosing an
incorrect one, such as desirable methods for saving records,
whether to select SLR or DSLR, and features that can help in
capturing special buildings and architectural structures. We
should be aware of the functionality of the camera, such as thelight source and use of the meter. Wide-aperture lenses are able
to get more light than smaller ones. The key to knowing more
about the camera is shutter speed, aperture, and exposure.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

In the conservation and utilization of cultural properties, it is notenough just to conserve and manage buried cultural properties,
but to fully appreciate them, it is only when cultural properties
are utilized that they can become signi¿cant as national treasureswith historical and high academic value. The Nara City
Archaeological Research Centre has conserved and managed alarge store of data on the sites and unearthed artefacts, and plans
various projects that enable citizens to directly touch culturalproperties, to learn and to feel the importance of them ¿rst-hand.
In addition, they properly reorganize artefacts in storage to create
new utilization opportunities.

The Nara palace was established in AD 710 when the Nara
capital was built at the northern edge of the Nara basin, moving
the capital from Fujiwara near Asuka. The capital was designed
after the Tang Chinese capital Chang’an. The city area measured
6 km from east to west and 5 km from north to south. The Narapalace was located on the north side of the city, and within theplace there were multiple buildings and compounds such as theImperial Audience Hall, State Halls Compound, Imperial
Domicile, and government of¿ce compounds.

viii. Conclusion
Is has been very important for me to participate in this workshop
in the context of a country with the weather perhaps similar to
Cambodia in this season, and as a country with more natural
disasters, yet Japan can still overcome its dif¿culties and is a
developed country. It has taught me that particular attention
should be paid to the protection of cultural properties, and has
inspired me to move forward through the training in this regard,
and with participation from other countries in the region, it hascertainly provided a wealth of experience and knowledge ininternational law on the protection of cultural properties, on
restoration and conservation, excavation, preparations at special
museums, and community involvement of the areas nearby
cultural properties. I would like to thank the generous team of the
ACCU Nara and the Agency for Culture Affairs which organized
this training program.

89

ChinaFinal Report, Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage Protectionin the Asia-Paci¿c Region 2018
Li Mengjing, Project Leader
Studio Two, Beijing Guo Wen Yan Cultural Heritage Conservation Centre Co.Ltd.

To protect cultural heritage is to protect our culture and traditionin the contemporary world. We protect the past for the future.
Without understanding the present, we cannot achieve that goal.
The one-month training program helped a lot for me to develop
such understanding.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Learning and observing with all other 15 participants from theAsia-Paci¿c region was a great experience. Coming fromdifferent countries, having different cultural traditions, we havedifferent kinds of cultural heritage and we are now facing
different problems concerning cultural heritage protection.
Talking to them gave me a broader view of cultural heritage,
especially the intangible part of cultural heritage and how it
relates to tangible heritage. The challenges the other participants
are facing and the work they are doing made me think more
about my work in my own country, about whether I noticed
similar problems, and how I can improve my projects.
But some problems are those we face together. Attending thistraining program and talking to my fellow participants, I got aclearer idea about how current global problems such as climatechange and natural disasters affect our heritage.
Other factors such as economic growth and globalization change
people’s attitude towards cultural heritage. The values of certain
groups change from time to time. To protect the cultural heritage,
we need to have deeper understandings of the present world,
knowing not only what happened in the past, but more
importantly, understanding what is happening right now. Mr.
Gamini said that we should make a change from “PPP” to “p.”That is, we should pay more attention to what people value. The
most important choices people make in terms of value areinÀuenced by current affairs. In this regard, it is of tremendous
importance to understand and respect the cultural traditions andthe current situations of different communities.
I think the goal of sharing knowledge and promoting mutual
understanding in the Asia-Paci¿c region in this training course
has been achieved. And it is very signi¿cant. We will keep
sharing our knowledge in the future.
The one-month program of lectures, workshops and on-site
study in Japan has been thought-provoking and has given me
clues to understanding the theory and methodology of cultural
heritage protection in Japan. Indeed, their conservation scienceis quite advanced. The careful and serious Japanese approach totreating cultural heritage commands respect.

90

However, as all the lecturers continuously told us from the ¿rst
day, there is no single answer to the problems we encounter incultural heritage protection. We have to develop our own way toprotect our cultural heritage, as Japan has been doing all theseyears. Embracing the concept of cultural heritage and actively
taking part in the discussion of issues related to cultural heritage,
both theoretically and methodologically, Japan ¿nally arrived at
the Nara Document on Authenticity 1994, expanding theuniversal understanding of authenticity. The Nara Document isof great signi¿cance for nations that bear different cultural
traditions from the former European-centered world.
As for the archaeological sites, China and Japan have a lot ofsimilarities. We can learn much from the Japanese experience. In
fact, some of the ideas really impressed me from the lectures. I
will pay more attention to these issues when I return to work.
1. The legislative system
China and Japan have similar procedures of application for
permission to excavate a site or undertake construction in an area
where archaeological remains are found. But in China, we aresite-centered. That means only the already known archaeologicalsites have protected areas and zones of limited construction. The
unknown archaeological remains can only be protected after
rescue excavation and value assessment. Sometimes, the valueof the site is only noticed years after the construction, when more
information is gathered. In such cases, there is no way to provide
adequate protection and site presentation.
The Japanese concept of LCCP (land already known to containcultural properties) in a city is very helpful for most of the cases.
It gives an outline of the buried cultural heritage in a city andprovides initial suggestions for civil construction and heritage
protection. It is easier to protect the archaeological sites if thegovernment’s decision is made before the construction. This isrelated to another issue: It is better to have a team of archaeologists
working in the government in charge of heritage-related work.
It is impossible and not necessary to change the procedure andpersonnel of government in China immediately. But it is betterthat we pay more attention to the unexcavated areas of sites, andstudy sites thoroughly before determining the areas for protection
and limited construction. Also, when working with local
governments we can suggest they add more measures forarchaeological site protection in their city master plans.
2. The presentation of archaeological sites
It is a common problem for East Asian countries, that since our3. Public involvement
It was also very impressive for me that the government andnational institutes make great efforts to develop a system for thecommunities to take part in the protection and utilization ofarchaeological sites, and the huge enthusiasm on the part of thecommunities was equally impressive.

In China, volunteers are always young students who are willingto learn from the cultural heritage, and their participation isstrictly limited and organized by the museums. It is not usual forworking adults and retired citizens to participate in an
archaeology club that is well supported. The public involvement
is more like an educational project or experience to the public. I
think we can pay more attention to this when composing themaster conservation plans of archaeological sites. We should
develop a system that can get the public actively involved inheritage protection and utilization.
There are many other things I learned from this training course,which I cannot list one by one. I sincerely thank the ACCU fororganizing this content-rich training course and thank all thelecturers and ACCU staff members for their great work.
And thanks to all of the participants; we shared a wonderfulmonth in Japan.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

ancient buildings were wooden structures, the only remains left
at a site may be the pits where the pillars once stood. The imageof the site can be dif¿cult to be understand for the common
people. But archaeological sites are resources shared by the
public, and it is our duty to ¿nd out a way to make it easier forthe public to understand them. Japan has tried various ways ofpresentation and interpretation of the archaeological sites, all ofwhich are very interesting. The Nagaoka Palace site may be themost impressive example. It faces the dif¿culty of preserving
and interpreting a large-scale archaeological site in an urban
area, attended by problems of land ownership and limited space.
The application of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality(AR) technology is a very interesting endeavour.

91

Fiji
Yesterday’s Trash, Todays’ Treasure: Linking Investigation,
Preservation and Management of Archaeological Sites with Museums
Mereoni Camailakeba, Field Research Ofﬁcer

Archaeology and Gazetting Section, Fiji Museum

Group Training Course (Final Report)

1. ABTRACTSThe International Charter for the Conservation and Restorationof Monuments and Sites (The Venice Charter), drawn up in 1964
and adopted by ICOMOS in 1965, mentions that generations ofpeople are instilled with a message from the past and are living
witnesses of their age-old traditions. The current generations inmost countries today are more sentient of the unity of humanvalues and regard ancient monuments as a common heritage.
However, while cultural heritage in many cases has beenrecognised to be valuable economically and environmentally, italso encounters many threats ranging from development toclimate change to natural disasters. The protection of cultural
heritage sites cannot be centred upon the application ofarchaeological methods alone. In this Asia–Paci¿c Cultural
Centre for UNESCO group training, I have learned that there ismore to focusing on archaeological preservation in situ alone.
Different approaches can be acquired through proper planning,
networking and management, not only locally but at the national,
regional and international levels. Developing cultural-related
policies will be a wasted effort if this is not understood from theindividual to the community level, and up to the national level.
The theme of this ¿nal report is related to the fact that some
ignore the signi¿cance of archaeological artefacts or cultural
remains as of no value. However, these are and should be treatedas treasure. Furthermore, the theme of this training can be seen
as linked to how museums play an important role only after wehave come to understand the different ways archaeological andany other cultural sites can be preserved and managed.
2. DISCUSSION
Linking Investigation, Preservation and Management ofArchaeological Sites with Museums
According to Article 1 of the ICOMOS Lausanne Charter (1990),
archaeological heritage includes all remnants of human existence
and consists of places relating to all manifestations of humanactivity, abandoned structures and remains of all kinds (including
subterranean and underwater sites), together with all the portablecultural materials associated with them. Archaeologists excavate
to unearth the past but are sites conserved after carrying out
excavation? Is it then a question of should we reconstruct thesesites? Is it authentic to reconstruct? Conservation is not taking
back the artefact or site to its original state or appearance but
stabilizing it in its current appearance or position. In order toconserve and restore archaeological objects using scienti¿cmeans the questions we ask ourselves as cultural experts is who
are we preserving this for? Are we preserving for the people?
This is where we link the role of museums in the preservation of

92

archaeological sites. It is where the communities, visitors, school
children have access to information and interpretations ofarchaeological sites. An example of this is the reconstruction of
the Nara Palace site buildings as a new place for cultural
exchange where the past meets the present.
Conservation can be done at the archaeological site in situ orwith parts of the site reconstructed. In the case of sites visited inJapan, some sites had been preserved in situ. For this end, proper
planning, networking and funding are needed. But is thatenough? According to ICCROM expert Joseph King in his
lecture, we as archaeological or cultural experts are not the only
experts, we have the cultural custodians who are heritage experts
themselves and we need to work together with them. So, in order
to conserve and restore archaeological objects properly using
scienti¿c methods, it is ¿rst necessary to perform detailed
examinations of their materials, structure and degrees ofdeterioration. Japan has all the necessary equipment andexpertise to carry this out at the highest level. But as they train
professionals from other developing Asia–Paci¿c regions, it issigni¿cant if we are able to adapt some of the methods applicableto our respective countries.
The bene¿ts of proper investigations of archaeological sites mayvary depending on the type of site. It may have spiritual, leisure,or educational bene¿ts, or bene¿ts through improvements in thequality of life which will contribute to sustainable development.
Management is about decision making, setting goals and making
sure we achieve them. Archaeological sites can be managed insitu, and also reconstructed to be managed in museums. Due tothe increase in use of the latest versions of technology,
management of cultural sites can also be done using suchtechnology to adapt to the changing trends of society. The
restoration project of the historical palace site in Muko City, in
Kyoto Prefecture, can be de¿ned as a Àat display because thereis hardly anything on the ground with regards to archaeologicalfeatures. To adjust to the current location of a low building
residential zone, the heights of buildings are restricted andbesides, as construction cost would amount to tens of billionyen, management have developed the augmented reality (AR)Nagaoka Palace application that can stimulate the visitors’ ¿vesenses by using experiential augmented reality and visual spacetechnology to further their understanding of the Nagaoka Palace
Site with smart phones and tablets. In this way the archaeologicalsite is restored in full scale at the original location with theoriginal scenery.

Activities provided in museums can also vary. This will promote
more interest for not only children but also serve as a learning
experience for parents as well. This way it brings a lot moreinteraction with the cultural objects and people or visitors, andby touching the artefacts it gives us a different feeling of pride in
our respective cultures.
3. Recommended Implementation Methods
Developing an Archaeology Week Program
There is need for the Fiji Museum to increase and have inclusive
community awareness programs, such as developing an
Archaeology Week and inviting interested youth as district
representatives from each province. Training them by providing
guest speakers to lecture on themes based on the signi¿cance ofarchaeology and the results of their research, providing hands-on
experience in excavation or archaeological impact assessments
processes, and site visits to archaeological sites to familiarise
them with the work, will give them knowledge and understandingon what role we play.

Involving Local Communities at the Excavation Sites
By involving the local communities in archaeologicalexcavations, we can interest them as they will see ¿rst-hand how
investigations of archaeological sites are carried out. This also
makes work a lot easier as they are the custodians and they know
their cultural sites better than trained cultural experts.
Developing Educational Activities for Children to Experience
Archaeological Work
Development of archaeological base excavation in museums isthe best way to promote awareness for children. This will not
only attract them but also serve as a learning experience for
Paci¿c Island countries where not much attention is given toarchaeology and history alone, but using new educational
programs such as having schools visit the Fiji Museum will be agood way to show students more about how interestingarchaeology can be.
Capacity Building for Staff on Preservation and Protectionof Archaeological Sites
Museum staff members need to be trained on the signi¿cance of
the Archaeology and Gazetting Sections’ roles and on theprocess of the workÀow. This will help build up interest among
the staff to better serve the public at large.
Proper Training on the Conservation of Artefacts
There is a need for proper conservation methods for museums,
and for proper management of temperature and humidity levels
to avoid further deterioration of artefacts either on exhibition or
in storage.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Museums play an important role as this is where all historicalinformation is stored. Housing most of the cultural artefacts fromarchaeological sites and others, they serve as a cultural hub.
They connect local communities and visitors alike with local
history. Museums not only display but also store artefacts andthis needs proper monitoring methods. With this the Minpaku
National Museum in Osaka exempli¿ed the signi¿cance ofproper conservation methods. Use can be seen of storage areas
for activities ranging from receiving objects, to rescuing objects,
to proper methods of fumigation, to treatment and to exhibiting
the artefacts. The museum buildings are also disaster resistantwhere some forms of stabilizing equipment are used. All
museums need to have proper disaster risk reduction methods tosafeguard the buildings and the artefacts, because they are sovaluable.

Developing a Proper Cataloguing Method for theArchaeology Store Room and Planning for Publishing of theStorage
The archaeology section has long-term plans for proper
documentation of the archaeological remains in the archaeology
store room. Developing this documentation will assist us in
documenting all the materials properly.

93IndiaReport on the Training Course on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia–Paci¿c Region
2018, Investigation, Preservation and Management of Archaeological Sites and Remains
Kisha Shanker, Researcher
Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology Department, Gurukula Kangri University

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Introduction
The training course on Investigation, Preservation andManagement of Archaeological Sites and Remains in the Asia–
Paci¿c Region was immensely bene¿cial for my professional
growth and for my country in various aspects, as it has provided
me with valuable information and experience about the latest
methodologies, techniques and experiences to be used for thepreservation and management of cultural heritage of my country.
The training course was attended by 16 participants fromcountries in the Asia–Paci¿c region and it provided me an
opportunity to discuss and share ideas/information about various
issues of investigating, preserving or managing the cultural
heritage of all these countries through interactive fruitful
discussions. Fortunately, research about cultural heritage interms of documenting and investigation is conducted at quite agood pace in India. However, I believe issues of management,
preservation and interpretation can be more enhanced ordeveloped extensively through sharing research experiences
between different countries, which was very well discussed
during this training course.
Cultural heritage is like the soul of the country; it is basically afoundation for the past, present and future embedded in multiple
layers. It should be the duty of each individual to safeguard it inevery possible way for posterity. A perfect example in this aspect
is Japan, which is worth appreciating. At all levels, the system ofsafeguarding the cultural heritage is very well structured andexecuted in an ef¿ciently planned manner, which is something
all countries in the Asia–Paci¿c region should try to adopt asmuch as possible. This course has broadened my horizon on theupkeep and protection of cultural heritage in my country invarious ways. I brieÀy discuss a few of them below.
Management of Cultural Heritage Sites/Artefacts
I gained knowledge and information about the well-planned
management strategies, and various methods of presentation andinterpretation of information about archaeological sites in Japan.
The most striking feature was the smooth and effective af¿liationand coordination of regional and international professionalorganizations with local/national governments. Through thiskind of proper communication arrangement, many problems ofmanagement can be solved.
Next, an important way to disseminate information about thesites is through prudent presentations and interpretations. The
various methodologies used at Japanese cultural heritage sites
were really interesting, for example the ground maps, wooden
signage, reconstruction of few structures for educational

94

purposes to give some idea to the visitors about the heritage
value embedded in sites like the Nara Palace site, etc. Anotherinteresting approach was the introduction of augmented reality/
virtual reality applications at sites which are densely populated
nowadays but hold rich cultural heritage remains, for example
the Nagaoka Palace site. Here, visitors can actually feel the fullambience and enjoy the structures of the palace through theseapplications. It is also less cumbersome to manage and is highly
involving and interesting for the visitors. Technology, if used inappropriate ways, can provide fruitful results in preserving thecultural heritage values of sites which are otherwise dif¿cult tomanage.
This kind of approach is very bene¿cial for cultural heritage sites
in India which are facing the brunt of rapid urbanisation andindustrialisation and slowly losing their worth. The cost involved
in implementing these applications is also not great and can beeasily managed and executed for the long term. In this regard, I
am planning to write about my recommendation to various
senior professionals/experts who work on these sites and are also
members of national committees which formulates guidelines
about the upkeep of various heritage sites, to put forward theseideas to higher authorities.
Museum Management and Storage
The management system and marketing strategies used in themuseums of Japan are very well executed. India, as a country
having such a large area has many museums, however, theNational Museums are only con¿ned to the region of the nation’s
capital. The most interesting aspect I learned from Japan is thedecentralization of the national museum from a single location tomultiple centres across the country, for example Nara National
Museum in Nara, the National Museum of Ethnology in Osaka,
etc. It is indeed a very well thought step especially in large
countries like India, where it could be a good approach to be
implemented because museums nowadays are not just mere
research institutes but act as cultural hubs (which is also thetheme of ICOM Kyoto 2019 Conference). With theimplementation of this approach, more and more people can be
involved in a much fuller and effective way.
Another interesting facet I learned is the disaster risk reduction
and preparedness of museum collections. Japan has veryef¿ciently and carefully planned its displays and storage ofheritage collections to deal with natural disasters. Prior planningand vigilance can give better results in terms of crises as learned
from the video presentation of the National Museum of
Ethnology after the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011. In

Community Participation at Every Level
Inclusion and participation of communities at every level were
key points of this training course which I found really fascinating
and interesting, such as the involvement of senior citizens by the
Nara City Archaeological Research Centre and Nara Palace Site
Museum, or the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Archaeology.
This is not just con¿ned to volunteer activities but also provides
local residents with basic knowledge about archaeology,
heritage, museums and conservation through short courses while
conferring recognition on them as registered citizen members.
The activities which involve the opening of certain speci¿c areasof archaeological sites to children and ordinary people toexcavate was something commendable, if they have proper andthorough vigilance on the part of the organisation involved.
The most vital aspect is to engage people and give them a senseof participating in something valuable, which inculcates a much
deeper understanding of and concern for safeguarding theheritage of the country. Ultimately, the goal for all thesemuseums, archaeological sites, and historical parks is to bridge
the gap between our past and present while saving the heritage
for the future, and this cannot be attained without involving
communities. This approach is very thought provoking and I am

wondering why we cannot do this in India, with such a huge
population. Senior citizens always look for something in whichto engage themselves once they retire from their work. This
community involvement aspect can be very bene¿cial for
museums in India if it can be implemented in a well-planned
manner. For my part, I am planning to write some articles/blogs
to generate more information about this approach and also holdtalks with other people who are really interested in history/
heritage and archaeology to encourage them to initiate suchactivities at their level as well. Most importantly, I will be
writing to museums on their pages on social media and throughemails about my suggestions as learned from my experience inJapan.
Conclusion and Recommendations• To obtain optimal results in the process of investigation,
management and preservation of cultural heritage, long-termplanning is required starting at the grass-roots level incollaboration with different research institutes andgovernmental agencies.
• Capacity building and a Àexible approach should be
implemented to ensure that plans are developed at a pace whichmeets the community’s expectations and gives valuable
outcomes.
• Public education is key for safeguarding the cultural heritagefor posterity by engaging children, adults and senior citizens.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

spite of the high magnitude of the earthquake’s strength, thedamage was not extensive. Also, proper documentation of the
rescue work was appreciated as a way to disseminate knowledge
to other countries which can learn from the experience andprepare themselves well before any disaster. The storage room
upkeep is something that India can learn from Japan. Taking
small measures like putting criss-cross steel rods to provide extra
support to the structure and keeping artefacts on shelves having
plastic wheels can reduce the damage to a great extent. Also thetimely and updated inspection on a regular basis of the museum
objects both on display and in storage is commendable. Since I
am presently working on site museums of India and my work
includes regular visits to these museums in all corners of India, I
will disseminate knowledge about these management strategies
of Japan to Indian museums through presentations and open
discussions.

I want to put forward a request to ACCU Nara and other culturalagencies of Japan to collaborate with Indian universities andresearch institutes to share their valuable ideas and experiences
through workshops or short-term training courses for
safeguarding and conserving the rich cultural heritage of India.
Acknowledgements
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to ACCU Nara andother cultural and government agencies and their staff members
for organising this well-structured training course and imparting
detailed knowledge about cultural heritage protection. I am
looking forward to implementing the lessons learned and toshare the experiences with my countrymen.

95

Indonesia
Final Report: The Investigation, Preservation, and Management of Archaeological Sites
Nur Ihsan, Research Staff
Archaeological Research Centre for Society, Institute for Research and Community Service, Hasanuddin
University

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Prologue
Being selected as a participant representing Indonesia in aninternational training course is a new experience for me. As
expected, this training course has been an invaluable learning
experience. To learn, to share, and to interact with fellow heritage
practitioners from overseas in a country which has a long
tradition in heritage protection has given me a profoundunderstanding of cultural heritage protection. In this regard, this¿nal report will provide some reÀection on my participation inthis training. This ¿nal report will be divided into three majorparts. Firstly, I give a brief summary of some noteworthy course
subjects. Secondly, I compare notes with present practices inIndonesia and on projected applications to my work in Indonesia.
Thirdly, I offer some points of evaluation and conclusion
proposed for the improvement of this training course.
Noteworthy Subjects
The curriculum of this training is designed so that participants
can get an array of new perspectives on the investigation,
preservation, and management of archaeological sites. By
combining lectures, workshops, on-site studies, and discussion
sessions, this training course has enriched me as a young heritage
professional with knowledge and skills needed from various
contexts, both global and local, as well as theoretical andpractical.
The two introductory lectures in the preservation ofarchaeological sites in a global context and in the Japanesecontext provided insight into the entire spectrum of training
topics. The ¿rst lecture shed light on the de¿nition ofarchaeological sites with their own uniqueness in values andcharacteristics demanding discrete management, different fromother kinds of heritage. The trends of heritage conservation in a
global context have a long history, shifting from heritagecentered management to people-centered management. In the¿rst-mentioned management, the quality and durability of thefabric were given the uppermost priority, while in the latter, thewellbeing of the society along with the heritage has become apriority. This so-called paradigm shift stipulates a series ofchanges in the way we manage our archaeological sites. A
common practice where archaeologists play a central role incaring for their sites has to be put aside to give space for otherpractitioners from various academic backgrounds to be involvedin managing archaeological sites. This multidisciplinary-based
management is now becoming standard practice in global
heritage management.
The second introductory lecture informed me about the long

96

Japanese tradition in cultural heritage protection. With its own
unique historical path, the Japanese approach plays a signi¿cantrole in setting global trends in heritage management.
The evolution of their heritage protection law, their standpointon scenic beauty and authenticity, the way they combine naturaland cultural heritage as one category in their rules, and thedecentralization of heritage management in governmental levels,
is to some extent reÀected in, and at the same time affected by,
the global trends.
The workshop sessions in this training always fascinated me.
Japan’s acknowledged accomplishments in science andtechnology clearly affect their archaeological practices.
Application of various scienti¿c methods, analysis, andequipment clearly demonstrate this, especially in conservation
science, even though Japanese archaeologists still maintain theirtraditional ways of recording artifacts, such as measured drawing
and ink-rubbing techniques in speci¿c phases of their workÀows.
This mixture is quite exciting and has given me, a young
archaeologist growing up in a transition age between “analogdigital,” a fresh perspective on archaeological practice.
The most anticipated sessions, the on-site lectures/excursions,must have been planned thoroughly by the training organizers.
All of the theory and information shared in the lecture sessions
was elaborated on and transformed into in-depth understanding
through direct observations. Sites, museums, and on-going¿eldwork sites were well selected to give knowledge and skillson the investigation, preservation, and management ofarchaeological sites.
Present Practices and Projected Applications in Indonesia
In light of the global trends in heritage management, and incomparison with Japanese protection laws, I have come torealize that Indonesia is going along a path similar to theJapanese. The inception of the new Cultural Heritage Law No.
11/2010 in Indonesia is considered as the beginning of a new
cultural heritage management paradigm in our country. At
present, cultural heritage management in Indonesia is developing
more towards public participation, supplanting the state-centeredparadigm that was based on the previous cultural heritage act.
After eight years of implementation of the decentralization ofcultural heritage management as mandated by the new cultural
heritage law in 2010, there is an imbalance in management
quality between the national and local governments in Indonesia.
The difference in budgetary amounts and discrepancies in humanresources create a clear contrast between nationally and locallymanaged cultural heritage. From this course, I learned that thisimbalance has to be reduced by empowering local governments
in terms of budget and human capacity building. On the other
hand, local governments also have to try to ¿nd alternative
sources of funding for their cultural heritage management, suchas a private-public partnerships or public donations.

How to improve public participation in cultural heritage
management in Indonesia is maybe one of the most valuablelessons that I learned from this training. Several sites andmuseums that we visited during this training course shed light onpractical aspects of community involvement in archaeological
heritage management. Nara City Archaeological ResearchCentre provides an example of how they involve the public ineach stage of their research. From excavation to the
documentation in the laboratory, the public is welcome to get
involved. Despite the different demographic pro¿les between
Japan and Indonesia, it is inspiring and prompts me to design ourown strategy to engage the community in different archaeologicalresearch stages as much as possible.
The Japanese approach to the conservation, restoration, andreconstruction of their cultural heritage is de¿nitely new to me.
Emphasis on value and the spirit of Japanese culture has ledthem to de¿ne the authenticity and integrity of cultural heritage
in a different way than we do in Indonesia. At ¿rst, I found it
hard to accept reconstruction of archaeological sites based on

As for my professional development, this training has contributed
tremendous insight on how to become a better cultural heritage
practitioner. Professionally, I am an archaeologist, a heritage
researcher, as well as a lecturer at an archaeology department.
The knowledge and skill I gained from this training will bebene¿cial to my research institute, especially in designing andconducting heritage projects in the future. Improvement of thesyllabus of courses for which I am responsible will be madebased on some of the new knowledge I received from thistraining. As an example, I have bought supplies and equipment
for ink rubbing, and I will share that technique with my students.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

The series of lectures on Japan’s heritage protection system andarchaeological practices in Japan was delivered by competentand experienced archaeologists. Their explanations raised much
critical thought in my mind when I compared the way we doarchaeology in Indonesia. In general, we share a common
practice. But in the technical aspects, there are many
dissimilarities between Japan and Indonesia. I am quite certain
this has been caused by the different contexts, sources ofinÀuence, and capacities of archaeologists between the twocountries. Apart from that, the insistence on perfection ofJapanese archaeologists is something that I have to adopt andspread among my fellow archaeologists. For a long period oftime, we have sustained some degree of ignorance regarding
perfection due to the various limitations that we have, such as thelack of suf¿cient funding and proper equipment.

analogy without substantial historical accounts. To me, andmaybe for the general heritage practitioners in Indonesia,preservation is limited only to maintaining the integrity ofheritage remains that have survived to the present, without any
addition or analogy-based reconstruction. But, then, a quotefrom a movie titled S1m0ne (2002) suddenly struck me during asite visit: “We are ¿ne with a fake. As long as you don’t lie aboutit.” In contemporary society where virtual/augmented reality has
spread and evolved to improve the way to learn and to grasp
information for educational purposes, and as far as I understandthe value-based approach of cultural heritage preservation, any
media can be utilized as long as it can effectively convey themeaning that we want the audience grasp. Moreover, referring toJapan’s success in developing their heritage tourism, which inturn gave a signi¿cant contribution to their income from tourism,
I found it understandable to utilize archaeological heritage insuch a way. As a more subtle effect, perhaps it helps them tomaintain their national integrity, something that a multiculturalcountry like Indonesia desperately needs.

Epilogue
As a young heritage professional, not all subjects of this training
course have a direct impact on how I conduct my job in myresearch institute. But as a lecturer, those subjects have been an
invaluable contribution to enrich my course's syllabus. To betrue, there are so many things that I gained from this training that
I cannot share them all in this limited space, not only from theformally scheduled programme, but also from this short living
experience in Japan. Each of the participants has a different
insight from their personal experience. Let that be part of ourprocess of becoming better heritage professionals, and clearly,
Japan has contributed an invaluable input into that process.

97

Kazakhstan
Final report: Some thoughts after the “Group Training Course for Young Professionals
on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia–Paci¿c Region 2018”
Aidana Koptileuova, Researcher
Primary Laboratory of Archaeology Artefacts, Archaeology and Ethnography Department, National Museum of
the Republic of KazakhstanGroup Training Course (Final Report)

Introduction
This report is about the “Group Training Course for Young
Professionals on Cultural Heritage Protection in the Asia–Paci¿cRegion 2018,” on the theme “Investigation, Preservation andManagement of Archaeological Sites and Remains,” which washeld in Nara prefecture by the Asia-Paci¿c Cultural Centre for
UNESCO and ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of
the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property) with thesupport of the Agency for Cultural Affairs of Japan, from
September 4 to October 5, 2018. In the era of globalization weare currently experiencing, the most priceless resource is“information.” Full information as obtained here is the invaluable
contribution of the ACCU to the development of cultural heritage
protection in Asia and the Paci¿c region. According to the“Sustainable Development Goals” adopted in 2015 by the United
Nations General Assembly, the ACCU and ICCROM arecontributing to several goals at once, because culture plays avital role in the sustainable development of mankind, andtherefore history and culture are factors in maintaining the fullvalue of happiness, which is precisely expressed in the Kazakh
proverb “There is no future without the past.”
Key points
Even though 27 years have passed since the collapse of theSoviet Union, the foundations of archeology in Kazakhstan werelaid precisely during the period of the domination of the Unionof Soviet Socialist Republics. Kazakh archeology is part of theSoviet school of archeology. However, today many archeologistsof Kazakhstan have established close contacts with many foreigncolleagues from different parts of the world, including manyfrom Japan, South Korea, Germany, the United States, etc. As avery young state, Kazakhstan works very hard to develop thecultural heritage as initially de¿ned in the national program“Cultural Heritage” since 2004. Among the problems in the
management of cultural heritage issues and archeology of thecountry, there are a number of issues regarding the preservationand conservation of cultural properties. However, the proper
authorities are constantly working on improving the current stateof our cultural heritage management system.
As we learned during the lectures of ICCROM representative
Joseph King, one of the main problems of the world cultural
heritage is construction and recovery. This problem is one of thecomponents of the problems of the cultural heritage of ourcountry. Not only in terms of outstanding universal values, suchas authenticity and integrity, but as a measure of appropriate
education. This explains the acute need for training of staff of therelevant institutions and participation in courses such as the98“Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage
Protection in the Asia–Paci¿c Region.” The issue of becoming amember state of ICCROM can also be referred to at this point.
Becoming a member of the International Center for the Study of
the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property will help
us solve many problems. As someone involved with culture, I
deeply believe that becoming a member country of ICCROM
will give new opportunities to specialists of cultural heritage of
Kazakhstan.
Many times during the training course there was discussion
about the preservation and utilization of archaeological sites
after excavation. Nowadays this is beginning to emerge as anurgent problem. We understand that in our case an institution
needs to check and control all archaeological monuments, butsince the territory of Kazakhstan is more than 2 million sq. km,
it is very dif¿cult to monitor the situation. Recently, however,
local centers for the restoration of cultural monuments havebegun to work on the accounting and control of historicalmonuments, but it takes time to ¿x this problem. The Japanesemethod of conservation and preservation of archaeological sites
after excavation, which we became acquainted with during thecourse, is a good example for all of our countries. And here I
would like to note the diverse presentation of archaeologicalmonuments of Japan, for example the Nara Palace site, or the
Nagaoka Palace site, which impressed me very deeply. In
Kazakhstan, we have several open-air museums that we areproud of, but the highly developed technology of Japanesescientists is many years ahead of us in this regard. Kazakhstan’s
museums are trying to be competitive in the realm of world
museology, however, technology such as AR and VR systems
has unfortunately not reached us yet. Kazakhstan also does nothave the opportunity to boast of restoration science, since there
is no special training to become a “restorer of historical values”
in the universities of our country. The restoration work carriedout at the Kitora Tumulus Mound, I believe, is an indicator of thehighest level of Japanese conservation science. I suppose thatsuch work—the relocation of the cultural value of such a fragile
quality, in order to preserve—is the only example in the world
today. Planning and management of cultural heritage are two of
the most important rules that I learned during this course.
As noted during the lectures on Japan, in the prefecture of Kyoto
alone there are more than 300 museums, while in the whole ofour country the number does not reach 400. However, despite
being a sparsely populated and young country, we are working
on this problem and in the last ¿ve years, two large museums ofstate importance, and two open-air museums were opened, with

another in process, planned to open next year. Therefore, in ratio
to the country’s population, our example may be viewed assatisfactory.

As a restorer of ceramics, the workshops held within theframework of the course were particularly important for me, andthese were the measured drawing, restoration of wooden
artifacts, and mainly I discovered some types of ¿llers that arevery convenient for using and polishing. The photography
workshop was no less important, because I need to carry out
photographic documentation of ceramic artifacts.
The course gave us an opportunity to get acquainted with thehighly sophisticated system of managing and protecting cultural
heritage in one of the most developed countries in the world. We
learned many details and innovations, as well as other features ofJapanese cultural heritage management. In particular, for myself,
I noted two points: one is getting children accustomed to thepractice of using the museum, and the other is attracting citizensof the country to participate in volunteer activities. These twopoints are very important for the future development of cultural
heritage protection in each country. They relate not only toculture, but also to education and society.
As a representative of Kazakhstan, I was especially interested indealing directly with representatives of ICCROM. I learned a lotof new things about ICCROM, and I articulated Kazakhstan’s
desire to join as a member state, which was one of my main

Conclusion
Periodically trying to think about some proposals for improving
this course, I came to a standstill. The ACCU thought throughevery detail, covering many challenges in just 30 days: how tolearn a large amount of information, witness the high level ofdevelopment in the science of restoration, reÀect on global issuesof cultural heritage, and acquire skills. This is another proof ofthe value of good planning and management.
Regarding all of what I wrote about above, I took careful notes,
knowing these are points on which we have to work in the future,
for the development of Kazakhstan’s cultural heritage. Upon
returning to my country, I will speak about and share this
precious knowledge that I gained here.
Acknowledgments
The Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural
Heritage Protection in the Asia–Paci¿c Region 2018, on thetheme “Investigation, Preservation and Management ofArchaeological Sites and Remains” is a top-ranking training
course with high standards in archaeological site management
and policy. I would like to express my deep gratitude to theJapanese government which made possible this high-quality
course to be held. Special thanks go to the Cultural Protection
Cooperation Of¿ce, Asia-Paci¿c Centre for UNESCO (ACCU),
the Agency for Cultural Affairs, the National Institute forCultural Heritage (Tokyo National Research Institute forCultural Properties, Nara National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties), and the International Centre for the Study of the
Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM).
My most respectful thanks go personally to Mr. Nishimura
Yasushi, Mr. Tamaki Shigeru, Mr. Nakai Isao, Ms. Wakiya
Kayoko, Ms. Horikawa Kazuko, Ms. Suzuki Sonoko, Ms.
Nishida Michiko, Ms. Miyado Marumi, Ms. Hata Chiyako, Mr.
Wakizono Daishi, Ms. Fukami Risako and every particular
lecturer that we had, together with my sincere pledge to attemptsimilar courses in the future in Kazakhstan as well.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

A special item to consider is the Japanese system of humidity
and temperature control in the exhibits and museum collections.
The thorough and accurate scienti¿c approach of the Japanese tothis issue was a source of wonder again and again. This was the¿rst time I came across the concepts of relative and absolute
humidity. In Kazakhstan, to our good fortune, the humidity isalways low and this problem basically bypasses us. However, I
will share with the managers of our museum’s storage facility
the tables and formulas for calculating these indicators. As
someone working in the primary restoration of artifacts, in thelaboratory we have materials that come directly from excavationin the ¿eld, and we store them for a certain time (up to 3 years),
therefore it is important to consider such climate indicators in
our laboratory.

goals. Mr. W. Gamini and Mr. J. King introduced us to thechallenges and problems of world-class cultural heritage. They
made us think about global problems that are poorly studied in
my country. These are questions of intangible issues, such as thevalue of landscapes and scenic beauty.

99

Kiribati
Final Report of Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage
Protection in the Asia-Paci¿c Region 2018
Tawake Eriata, Assistant Cultural Ofﬁcer
Culture and Museum Division, Ministry of Internal Affairs

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Introduction
The course on the “Investigation, Preservation and Managementof Archaeological Sites” from the ACCU Nara provided a great
opportunity and extraordinary experience to young professionals
participating for 2018. There were many skills and muchknowledge learned during the course that will be vital for
safeguarding cultural heritage in the Asia and Paci¿c regions.
The course also disseminated important perspectives andconcepts for young learners to understand and expertise to know
when working in the ¿eld of cultural preservation to enable themto make initiatives that will contribute in preserving uniquecultural properties and archaeological sites. The overall program(lectures, community involvement, meetings and on-site visits)of this one-month course has been very resourceful and fruitfulfor the future development of all cultural institutions aroundthese regions.

communities asserted for some sites (places of their ancestors in
the past) that they were sure they could ¿nd some ¿shing gear orother artefacts if they dug there. Their suggestion was “what theof¿ce can do to those sites, maybe they can ¿nd more things ifthey keep digging!!” The question of how to respond challenged
me every time.

The purpose of this report is to brieÀy discuss the knowledge andskills acquired during this one-month course with the aim ofsharing those skills and knowledge with fellow colleagues at theKiribati National Museum and Culture Centre and othercolleagues from other countries that have time to read it. Also, it
is to show great appreciation and acknowledgement to ACCU
Nara and other co-organizers, to Nara prefecture, and different
communities and institutions involved, for giving this opportunity
and making it a successful one. Thank you all and Arigatou
Gozaimasu.

Another plan concerning the lack of necessary expertise is toencourage ¿nal-year high school students to study archaeologicalcourses in order to make a good team. It might take time but it isbetter to move forward toward positive goals. I learned how
important this course is for cultural preservation work, so my
aim now is for a new generation to know about it and tounderstand as well. It is a matter of awareness and reaching out
to schools for this kind of archaeological training.

In fact, there were lot of new skills and knowledge gained
throughout the training, but the report will mainly focus on skills
and knowledge appropriate to being applied in the Kiribati
Museum and Culture Centre, considering the current resourcesin terms of staff, equipment and budget that we have. With nodoubt, there are other skills and knowledge learned throughout
the course that for various reasons cannot be applied at this time,
but are also important and will contribute to the future
improvement of the Kiribati National Museum and Culture
Centre.
Results achieved
1. Archaeological research and excavating archaeologicalsites to safeguard artefacts or remains
This is one area of very new knowledge I learned during thecourse. Back in Kiribati, there is no expertise in archaeology,
meaning no archaeologists, and these matters were not wellknown even among the staff of the Museum and Culture Centre.
The excavation of archaeological sites Kiribati is not part of thework plan. The issue I encountered during work is when local

100

After learning more about archaeological sites and artefacts
during the course I now completely understand and havecon¿dence about how to do further research on archaeologicalsites in Kiribati. Since I learned basic knowledge and skills on
this, I am sure that I can work together with archaeologists whoalways visit Kiribati for research purposes or I can request
experts to come and help with excavation work. This is one ofthe projects I am ready to propose to my of¿ce to seek funding
so we can do the excavation work soon.

2. Cooperation, coordination, collaboration: Engaging
communities as a means of promoting the role of museums tosafeguard cultural properties
The course gave me broader understandings of how to engage
communities at different levels to get them involved in thepreservation of cultural properties as well as maintaining thevalue of their traditional cultures. Communities are the custodiansof cultural properties though they can be the source of pressures
to implement cultural properties preservation measures. So it isvery important to work collaboratively with them.
From the lectures, involvement with different communities
during the course, and attending the ICOM meeting, I managed
to understand more about the different types of community
involvement that can exist in a particular place. This can consistof groups of people sharing the same interest, students,
volunteers, etc.
Referring to my own work back home, I have visited 13 islands
to conduct community consultations with the aim of encouraging
residents to maintain their traditional customs and skills and topreserve their cultural properties such as sites and artefacts in3. Managing cultural properties
During the course, I also learned how to manage culturalproperties well. There are various concepts that need to beconsidered when managing cultural properties and each requires
speci¿c skills and knowledge. This is one of our major tasks
back home, so while I previously had some knowledge and skills
for managing cultural properties, I learned new things that arevery important and will contribute to the future development andimprovement of our work, especially for our one and only
museum.
i.

ii.

Documentation – I knew in theory that this is the mostimportant concept of managing cultural properties, but I
was able to learn more and directly experience many
speci¿c skills and knowledge required, such as
photographing, measured drawing and rubbing
techniques for documenting artefacts, and others I saw
through observation when visiting different institutions
and museums during the course. I am eager to go backand share such important skills I learned with my fellow
colleagues and request my of¿ce to purchase speci¿cequipment required in order to continue to practice what
I have learned. Since I know some of the relevant skills
required, I will encourage my team to attend related
courses so we can work together.
Conservation and restoration – I learned a lot on
conservation science and restoration skills for artefacts
that was taught in the course. However, due to limited
resources (human and ¿nancial resources) that wecurrently have, I will not be able to apply all the skills I
learned but what is more important is the knowledge I
have after learning that will help for the future
improvement and development for our museum andcultural properties. I managed to pick up simple skills
that I can apply, such as in the conservation andrestoration of wooden artefacts. We have a lot of wooden
artefacts so I will apply the skills that I learned such as
controlling the temperature and humidity for storingthese artefacts and the conservation of waterlogged
wooden artefacts.

iii. Formulation of laws/regulations and guidelines – This isalso important as part of good management of cultural
heritage or cultural properties. In order to adapt to globalchanges whereby people will somehow abide by
implemented laws, formulation of cultural preservation
laws/regulations is important to help in management

iv. Collaboration with other institutions – This is also part of
the work of managing cultural properties. One of the¿ndings of my survey is the issue of destruction ofcultural sites due to infrastructure development at outerislands. After learning a lot about how important it is tocollaborate with other institutions to preserve culturalproperties, especially archaeological sites, in the course,
I understand that this might help to resolve the issues I
mentioned earlier.
v.

Disaster risk management – This is very important inplanning for mitigation and preparedness for thepreservation of cultural properties and for exhibiting
artefacts with the aim to showcase and to maintain their
original condition and to preserve them from any
disasters that may occur any time.

Group Training Course (Final Report)plans. Also, it is important to make guidelines to befollowed while doing the work, such as culturalpreservation management plans that include the main
objectives of the work, methodologies and monitoringprocedures. This will be a great help for attaining goodunderstandings of the outputs and outcomes achieved
and lead to further development of plans for improvement.
I learned a lot about how to make management plansincluding procedures for nominating cultural heritage to
be inscribed on World Heritage lists. These are the mostimportant aspects of knowledge I gained and I am
looking forward to sharing them with my fellow
colleagues at my of¿ce and working together to apply
them in our future plans and work.

their possession. However, the outcome has been unsatisfactory
as only a few islands have managed to take initiatives as
expected. This is my main concern and I want to ¿nd solutions
for it. Thus, I learned from the course that working with thecommunity means giving them a chance to make their own planon how to manage their cultural properties, and that it is not for
us to make a plan and present it to them as we usually have done.

4. Exhibitions of cultural properties in museums and onarchaeological sites
All I knew before participating in this course is to exhibit cultural
heritage in the museum and during national cultural and museum
functions organized by the of¿ce annually, such as International
Museum Day and National Cultural Day. This is what I waseager to learn more about in order to improve our work backhome. Thus, I learned a lot of techniques on exhibitions inside
the museum throughout the course and during my observations
in different museums. What I learned that impressed me is tocreate speci¿c themes of exhibitions that connect the past withthe future. This is a very important aspect to be considered whenplanning and doing exhibitions.
Another important thing I learned is to reconstruct culturalproperties to be exhibited at their original locations. This will
help people to understand more and will attract them to visit
those sites and feel the lifestyles of their ancestors. I learned andobserved a lot of reconstructions that have been done atarchaeological sites in Japan that we visited. What I will apply
back home is the reconstruction at sites by selecting only somebuildings to be fully reconstructed and others to be exhibited byreconstructing only the foundation framework or by using
indigenous trees that can show the building ground structures. I

101

am interested in these techniques partly due to the lack ofresources of our of¿ce at present, but also because some of theknowledge I learned will be important for future plans. As
quoted during one lecture, “money is not a problem if it is amatter of national identity.” We will work hard to get more
funding in order to safeguard our cultural heritage, our national
identity, and to apply all knowledge I learned with the help offurther expertise from other institutions.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

5. Educational programs as part of promoting culturalpreservation and maintaining traditional customs for new
generations
Culture has positive inÀuences on children’s development on theother hand, while children have important roles in preserving
culture as they are the future generation to maintain the continuityof unique traditional customs and to preserve valuable culturalproperties. One of the issues faced in Kiribati is the ignorance
about traditional culture on the part of new generations. Even
though we tried to encourage families to teach their kids fromtheir home, they argue that because of modern education,
children started to feel bored learning and hearing about theirown traditional cultures.
What I learned during the course to address this issue, is that the
purpose of the museum and of cultural heritage should be known
as cultural hubs which promote the past in order to save thefuture. The loss of culture means losing the past and this willaffect the future. Involving children through educational
programs in the museum is one of the best ways to help in
promoting our cultural heritage to the children. These programs
should provide entertainment during school visits through which
students can experience and feel their ancestors’ traditional wayof life, such as by playing local games, creating games that
portray traditional lifestyles of people in the past, etc. This would
really help to make students understand more if they could
participate in the experience. We could also get them involved inlocal agricultural activities such as the cultivation of Babai andother indigenous plants.
Also, we should encourage high school students to participate incultural activities organized by the of¿ce, and by local
associations which are the main stakeholders in the of¿ce such as
local artists, handicrafts associations, and other cultural
practitioners’ local associations.

102

6. Some solutions I found for budget constraints
The important point I learned is to work together with local
governments and encourage them to help with ¿nancial support
for preserving their cultural properties, and also urge communities
to be able to fund their own way and obtain ¿nancial support topreserve their cultural heritage and not to depend on thegovernment. Also, the government needs to work for the nation
to become a member of international cultural agencies, to be able
to take advantage of funding and other opportunities provided
for capacity building of staff members.
Issues and recommendations• The only issue I faced is that some PowerPoint presentations
were not translated, which presents dif¿culties if we want torefer to them later. I humbly recommend that translated
versions of these PowerPoint presentations be provided as they
can be important future sources back home to share with our
fellow colleagues.
• Also, it would be helpful to provide information on conservation
methods for some common materials in the Paci¿c, such asartefacts made from strands and ¿bres, if possible.
Conclusion
The training was very successful and the overall program
activities we participated in were all done according to plan
despite some bad weather that we sometimes encountered. This
training is a beginning for the culture and museum staff from
Kiribati to learn more and to promote similar courses related topreservation, restoration and management of archaeologicalsites, which are matters less well known by our people in general
as well as by high school students. It also provided a good
network of many experts around the Asia and Paci¿c regions,from Japan and from around the world to work with and help
each other to safeguard our ancestors’ treasures which are very
valuable to us all, our cultural heritage that connects us with thepast and gives us our future.
No past means no future. Preserve our past for our future
generations.
Thank you for your time to read this report.

Lao PDR
Final Report: A Study of Cultural Heritage Site Management
Sommay Singthong, Head of Archaeological Unit
Archaeology and Cultural Resource Management Course, Department of History and Archaeology, Faculty ofSocial Sciences, National University of Laos

2. Perspectives applicable to Laos
As can be seen, Japan has a very well developed awareness andapproach to cultural properties protection and management,
particularly the laws in cultural properties protection including
their various methods and techniques, which can be seen inpractice in Nara and elsewhere in Japan. Regarding my current
position of work in an educational institute in Lao PDR, it is anadvantage for me to apply the knowledge and experiences
obtained from the training program on cultural heritage
protection in the Asia-Paci¿c Region 2018 to work in my homecountry, particularly in educational institutes and relatedorganizations from the central to local levels.
After returning to my home country, I have to write a report anddeliver it to my colleagues and students, so I can share with them
the knowledge and experiences obtained from this training
program. I am also the one responsible for lecturing anddeveloping the teaching program in the curriculum ofarchaeology and cultural resources management in the National

University of Laos, the only educational institute in the country
which contributes to human resource development in the ¿eldsof archaeology and cultural resources management for both BA
and MA degrees, so I will apply this knowledge and experience
to develop those curricula. For instance, I can already improve
my teaching program which I currently conduct on topics such as
ancient technology, environmental archaeology, computers forarchaeology, archaeological excavation, etc. I can also sharewith my colleagues who are responsible for teaching subjects on
cultural heritage law, archaeological drawing, archaeologicalsurvey, cultural heritage protection and museum management.
The AR and VR approaches to facilitate cultural properties
presentation is one of the new signi¿cant pieces of information I
learned and may be one of the best choices for promoting andmaintaining cultural properties in the present day, so this can be
mentioned in the cultural heritage protection course and thecomputers for archaeology course. The knowledge on themethods and techniques to conserve metal and wooden remains
observed at the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties will be taken into the content of the museum
management course, as well as various other methods andpractices in museum management that were observed here thatwill be discussed, including their issues and limitations. For
example, the cases of removing cultural properties from theoriginal in situ location to another context for conservation, as
seen at the Nagareyama Tumulus, Suyama Tumulus, Kitora
Tumulus Mural Experiential Museum, etc. The cultural heritagesite management of Nara Palace also provided examples ofvarious signi¿cant methods and diverse technical approaches tomanage parts of the site that had been excavated and for which
restoration was conducted, sometimes displaying only theoutline of a structure on the surface, etc., and these practices
provided me larger knowledge of the possibilities of cultural
heritage management. The storage management and ¿rst aid
methods for cultural properties in the sites will be also taken into
the content of the archaeological excavation course, and therestoration methods and techniques will also be discussed during
the teaching and learning process at the National University of
Laos. Learning the methods and techniques in photography,
especially the on-site photography, was a signi¿cant experienceto improve my capacity and to apply in my archaeologicalresearch in Lao PDR in the near future.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

1. Introduction
The training program by ACCU Nara for 2018 provided me witha lot of knowledge which included information aboutorganizations contributing to cultural properties protection on
both global and regional scales, while the long historicdevelopment of Japanese laws on cultural properties, methods
and practices in cultural properties management, archaeologicalexcavation methods and practices, drawing methods andtechniques of documenting archaeological remains, and pottery
classi¿cation methods were also explained. Archaeological sites,
cultural heritage sites and monuments were then visited in orderto provide and share examples of the orientation methods andpractices on cultural properties management in different
conditions with various approaches. Meanwhile, I also gained
knowledge on the possibilities of community cooperation
regarding cultural properties. Also, the use of AR and VR
applications to facilitate the presentation of cultural properties is
one of the new signi¿cant aspects of management that I learned.
The methods and techniques to conserve metal and wooden
remains used at the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties, and the methods and practices in museum
management, storage management and ¿rst aid methods for
cultural properties at the sites were also instructive, as well asother restoration methods and techniques. The lectures andworkshops on photography, especially the on-site photography
in this training program, provided one of the most valuable
opportunities to improve my capacity in order to develop andapply these skills in Lao PDR in the near future.

A capacity building project will be organized by the faculty ofsocial sciences after my return and I am the one who will takeresponsibility for planning and managing the activities, which
will include all of the public agencies involved in work related toarchaeology and cultural heritage management in Laos from the103

Group Training Course (Final Report)
104

central level to the provincial level, district level and local
communities (who live nearby cultural heritage sites, so I canapply the knowledge and experience obtained here to those
activities, such as diverse methods and techniques for dealing
with various conditions and characteristics of site environments
practiced here in Japan, and we can discuss and apply these tosimilar cases in Laos as well). The local communities’
cooperation and awareness is one of the most impressive
practices here in Nara Prefecture and elsewhere in Japan, andwill also be applied. With regards to local community cooperationin Japan, I hope to convince my colleagues who are responsible
for curriculum development in the educational system in Laos,
such as primary and high school textbooks, to draw upon theimpressive Japanese example and take the awareness of culturalproperties as a goal for introduction into the curriculum in Laosas well.
In addition to lecturing and contributing to capacity building
projects in Laos, I also conduct research on archaeology, cultural
anthropology and cultural resource management, so theknowledge and experiences I gained from this training program
will be of valuable bene¿t for contributing to the sustainable
development of cultural properties protection in Laos PDR.
3. Conclusion
This training program provided me a great opportunity to learn
and obtain a lot of new signi¿cant knowledge related to culturalproperties protection, and I have learned much about culturalproperties protection on a larger scale, and about various methods
and techniques in diverse environmental conditions which arealso linked to the purpose of cultural heritage protection andrestoration tasks. Meanwhile, I have also learned about theoutstanding progress and issues regarding cultural properties
management in well a developed country such as Japan, their site
excavation practices, their management of museums, monuments,
temples and shrines. Another impressive area of knowledge forme involves the superb educational system in Japan, particularly
the awareness instilled in people regarding cultural properties, as
can be seen in the cooperation between different public agencies
and local communities as volunteer activities for culturalproperties protection such as archaeology support clubs andnetworks, etc. Alongside the knowledge and experiences
obtained from this training program, I can also link into regional
and international networks for cultural heritage protection which
offer signi¿cant opportunities to share and develop knowledge toapply in various future approaches.
My highest gratitude goes to the Cultural Heritage Protection
Cooperation Of¿ce, Asia-Paci¿c Cultural Centre for UNESCO(ACCU Nara) for providing this opportunity, and my sincere
thanks go to all of the ACCU Nara staff members for theirwonderful management and fantastic activities during the entire
training program. I believe that I can apply the knowledge andexperiences to contribute to archaeological work and culturalproperties protection tasks in Lao PDR in the future.

Maldives
Final Report on the Group Training Course on the Investigation,
Preservation and Management of Archaeological Sites
Zaha Ahmed, Acting Head of Heritage Section
Heritage Section, Department of Heritage, Ministry of Education

This training program gave me the opportunity to gather more
knowledge in various ways to improve the management of
cultural heritage of the Maldives. Moreover, the training sessions
helped to deepen my technical knowledge in cultural heritage
documentation and conservation techniques. Also, ways toincrease our global network in this ¿eld were introduced throughthe meetings and exchanged conversation with the representativesof international organizations such as ICCROM and ICOM. The
hands-on experience as well as the ¿eld trips to the cultural
heritage sites and the museums helped immensely to comprehendand compare the different presentation methodologies of cultural
heritage. Furthermore, the various creative ways of utilizing
modern technology in the cultural heritage ¿eld demonstrated
new ways to bridge the past with the future. Discussions with the¿eld experts helped me to recognize the lessons learnt and thebest practices of the cultural heritage profession. Especially the
dialogues exchanged throughout this training program and theknowledge garnered through them have helped me to reÀect onvarious ways to improve the current cultural heritage situation of
the Maldives.
The participants of the training program came from different
countries, ranging from small island nations to big land masscountries, with the cultural heritage varying between them.
However, it was surprising to note that the challenges andlimitations were more or less similar for all. More interestingly,

through the discussions we were able to understand that the lackof funding and shortage of human resources are happening not
only in the cultural heritage ¿eld, but that other sectors such as
health, environment, education, etc., are facing similar problems
as well. Hence, the solution is widening our perspective to work
collaboratively with other sectors. All the related stakeholders ofcultural heritage need to be consulted and their involvement
needs to be made more prominent in order to induce people tosupport cultural heritage work, by exploring and ¿nding ways tocomplement each other’s work and ef¿ciently maximize theusage of limited resources. The importance of community
involvement and support was emphasized throughout thetraining program by giving good examples from Japan. I believethat the Maldives needs to go a very long way to attain this levelof community involvement, as volunteer work is not common in
our country. However, promoting community awareness andincreasing their love for the cultural heritage will be bene¿cial
for safeguarding that heritage. Also, once the community
becomes the guardian of cultural heritage sites there will be noneed of high walls and locked doors to protect those sites.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

There is no written history of the Maldives before its conversion
to Islam in 1153 AD. However, various archaeological andheritage sites bear evidence that the country has been inhabited
for at least two thousand years. Although these heritage sites are
the most reliable asset for conserving and researching Maldivian
history and culture, these sites are being threatened by the vastdevelopment that has been ongoing in the country for the past
century. The country’s old fabric is being peeled off due to a lackof awareness towards these sites. Moreover, the weak legislative
framework to protect and conserve these sites has exacerbatedthis issue even more. Reserving space for cultural heritage assets
in a land-scarce country like the Maldives is a challenge. Similar
to any other small island nation, the Maldives is also encounteringdif¿culties, such as having a small domestic market, a narrowand fragile resource base, a shortage of ¿eld professionals,
obstacles for inter-island transport and communication, heavy
dependence on external trade, and vulnerability to external
shocks and natural disasters. Hence, strategic ways to sustain
and preserve the valuable cultural heritage of the Maldives need
to be identi¿ed soon, so that future generations can cherish theirheritage.

Being an archipelago nation, cultural heritage sites in theMaldives are scattered and located on various islands. But the
Department, responsible for safeguarding heritage and culture
throughout the country, is only located on the capital island,Male’ City, with limited staff. However, understanding how
cultural heritage is managed in Japan has opened up options that
could be applicable in the Maldives. In Japan, the national
authorities work cohesively with the prefecture and local
governments or municipalities in safeguarding the cultural
heritage. Most importantly, the active involvement of local
government in the cultural heritage ¿eld illustrates the
successfully decentralized system that is implemented in Japan.
In my view, the local government or municipality must play animportant role in town planning. Therefore, local government
responsibility for safeguarding the cultural heritage should beconsidered when new development projects are carried out. In
the case of the Maldives, local governments are unaware of thecultural heritage sites and sometimes development projects are
conducted while unintentionally demolishing these sites. In
Japan, trained ¿eld experts working in local governments carryout the cultural heritage work. Moreover, local universities
provide assistance to this work. In order for Japan to establish
such an ef¿cient system, awareness about cultural heritage iscultivated through the education system from a very young age.
Therefore, I believe that the ¿rst step for the Maldives is toreview the cultural heritage content of the education system. We
should also train people from the island councils and empower105

them to take care of the cultural heritage in the islands. Moreover,
the role of the state government needs to be revised, as I believethat the local island councils and the atoll councils need to be
empowered and the Department of Heritage (state government)
needs to be the regulating body and overseeing the cultural
heritage work carried out throughout the nation.

Group Training Course (Final Report)
106

In the case of the Maldives, we have always held a vision andmission only aiming to safeguard heritage to protect the national
identity and to pass this on to future generations. With theknowledge gained from this training program I believe that thevision and mission of safeguarding and preserving cultural
heritage needs to bene¿t the past, present and future people ofthe Maldives. Moreover, identifying the attributes related to thecultural heritage and articulating their signi¿cance can be an
important tool for advocating to everyone the importance of thiswork. In the training course I witnessed that most of the cultural
heritage projects of Japan have durations of 50 to 100 years,
meaning these projects evolve throughout their long life span.
Also, greater numbers of people of the nation get the opportunity
to be involved in such projects, giving them more signi¿cance.
Therefore, I believe that the outcome of these projects are much
more bene¿cial compared to the short sighted projects that weare mostly involved with. Hence in my view one of theshortcomings of cultural projects of the Maldives is the lack of along-term vision. These projects become less meaningful andfuture development trends are not considered in these projects.
Therefore, I believe that we need to change our projects to belongsighted and encompass goals that engage the cultural
heritage in ways that improve the well-being of the communities,
that a people-centred approach needs to be adopted, and that the¿nal outcome needs to bene¿t all the generations of the country.
In the ¿eld of cultural heritage I ful¿l multiple roles, ranging
from being an architect to a heritage manager, and I am also
actively involved in conducting awareness programs. I will use
the knowledge I have gained in restructuring the cultural heritageorganization and will offer my experience that I have learned inthis training to initiate the formulation of a charter to standardize
the cultural heritage activities of the Maldives. This charter canserve as a guideline for cultural heritage professionals of theMaldives.
I would like to thank ACCU Nara and all the organizers of thiscourse for conducting such a fruitful program. I am very gratefulfor having been a participant in this training program. And I lookforward to applying and sharing the knowledge that I havelearned from this training. I assure you that the network ofprofessionals that I have developed through this course will be ingreat use throughout my career.

New ZealandFinal Report: Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage
Protection in the Asia-Paci¿c Region 2018
Eleanor Jeneen Sturrock, Archaeologist
Lower Northern Area Of¿ce, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga

The training programme provided me with not only understandingof cultural heritage and current practices for the preservation,conservation and excavation of cultural heritage properties inJapan but also the opportunity to understand cultural heritage inother countries. The country report presentations by eachparticipate at the start of the training course highlighted somesimilarities in the issues we are facing in each of our respective
countries. Some of the key issues that I identi¿ed in relation toarchaeology in New Zealand included limited public knowledge
and appreciation, destruction from development and threats fromenvironment factors including natural hazards. Although thesituation in each country is unique, I think these concerns ingeneral were applicable to other countries including Japan and as
a result of this course I have a better understanding of different
possible approaches that can be taken to overcome these.
As identi¿ed above, one of the issues faced in New Zealand, isbeing able to further the education of the general public inregards to understanding and appreciating cultural heritage sites.
The dissemination of information is a key measure needed tocombat this problem. As part of this course we visited various
cultural heritage properties that employed different ways of site
presentation. Each demonstrated the multileveled cooperation
between groups that was undertaken to achieve the desired
outcomes. Projects were often managed over several years andinvolved a number of people, including experts/specialists,committees, the local or national government and volunteers
and/or input from the community. It was interesting to see thedifferent outputs from these projects including how the sites
were interpreted based on the research and analysis undertaken,
the different methods for the presentation of sites and ongoing
management required including physical and digitalreconstruction of buildings, preservation of the archaeology insitu, reburial and physical representation of ¿ndings foreducational purposes. In particular, the Nara Palace site
demonstrated the possibility of synthesising the results ofresearch over a large area and how this information has andcontinues today to be presented to visitors in different formats.
In New Zealand, I think through careful planning andconsideration, more projects that are aimed at involving thecommunity and achieving a greater appreciation for cultural
heritage can be achieved.
The lectures provided by Mr. Gamini Wijesuriya and Mr. Joseph
King provided a global perspective in terms of world heritage
and the international context for the preservation and conservationof cultural heritage. One of the points highlighted during theselectures was the importance of considering all values, not justthose that relate directly to the cultural heritage property,
including others which may have an impact or inÀuence thedecision making process when trying to achieve better protection
and the preservation or conservation of sites. I think the groupexercise where we assessed the values of the UNESCO World
Heritage sites was an valuable exercise, as it informs the decision
making process and determines the work Àow for any work
which is going to be carried out on a cultural heritage site.
Assessing the values and/or signi¿cance of cultural heritage sites
is already in practice in New Zealand, however, I think moreemphasis could be placed on how the outputs of this decision
making process can feed back to inform future preservation andconservation work. For example, archaeological research in New
Zealand is used to identify and provide physical evidence ofMƗori heritage places; providing a tangible link to the intangible
stories of the past where material culture has sometimes thought
to have disappeared. Through research we can gain a better
understanding of the archaeological values which along with
cultural values and other values identi¿ed can support thepreservation and conservation of MƗori heritage places.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

It is important for heritage specialists to continuing training
throughout their professional career by attending training
courses, conferences and building upon their skill sets. The‘Group Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural
Heritage Protection in the Asia-Paci¿c Region 2018’ provides
such an opportunity for young professionals like myself.
Participants from various countries came together to shareexperiences and learn from each other whilst being provided aplatform on which to further technical skill sets and knowledge
base to help attain better protection and preservation of cultural
heritage in our own countries.

It was interesting to visit the Imperial Capital Garden in Narafound in the 1970’s where a proposed a post of¿ce was to belocated. After the well preserved signi¿cant garden site wasfound the national government purchased the land and the site
was designated and protected. The site today has been preserved
as is after the archaeological investigations and provides anopportunity for members of the public to understand the original
design elements of the garden and what the archaeologicalremains look like. As a comparison, in New Zealand we do notoften takes this approach with the presentation of sites. The New
Zealand archaeological record is similar to Japan in this sensethat often archaeological sites themselves are below ground levelwith no physical manifestations above the ground surface,unknown prior to the start of development works. Although we
assess the potential for archaeology before works begin, we

107Group Training Course (Final Report)
108

cannot always determine the absolute values of a site. This canmake it dif¿cult to plan and provide for outputs beyond standardpractice and as a result, sometimes there are missed opportunities
with sites that could be used as educational opportunities. Asidefrom preservation issues like environmental controls, very rarely
do we get the opportunity to excavate a site and preserve it insitu, and make it visible to the public. I am currently involved in
the development of a research framework that will used to help
evaluate archaeological work which aims to promote and initiate
research to improve our understanding of archaeological sitemanagement and contribute to understanding New Zealand’spast. As part of the implementation of this framework it is hoped
to achieve outcomes that contribute to the preservation andconservation of sites that provide an opportunity to be utilisedfor educational purposes.
I would like to thank all those who made this experience possible.
Firstly, I would like to thank and express my gratitude andappreciation to the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Japan(Bunkacho), the Asia-Paci¿c Cultural Centre for UNESCO(ACCU Nara), International Centre for the Study of the
Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM)
and the National Research Institution for Cultural Properties fororganising this course and the support of the Japanese government
and local administrative bodies. I would especially like to thankthe following ACCU staff who were often with the group on adaily basis: Mr. Nakai Isao, Ms. Wakiya Kayoko, Ms. Suzuki
Sonoko and Ms. Miyado Marumi and all of the lectures who
gave up their time to present. I also would like to acknowledge
Ms. Hata Chiyako for translating and the accompanying student
assistants Mr. Wakizono Daishi and Ms. Fukami Risako whowere always on hand to guide us. To my fellow participants, I amvery grateful to have been a part of a group of professionals whoare passionate about cultural heritage and to have been able toshare this learning experience with you. I would also like to say
thank you to Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, whoprovided me with the time and support to attend this course inJapan. I look forward to be able to share with my colleagues in
New Zealand the experiences and knowledge that I have gained
from participating.

Papua New Guinea
Evaluation and Applicability of the Training Course: A Final Report
Jason Kariwiga, Teaching Fellow
Anthropology, Sociology & Archaeology Strand, School of Humanities and Social Science, University of Papua
New Guinea

First and foremost is the systematic and strong, broad andinclusive cultural heritage legislation that Japan has, legislationthat has been constantly evolving and responding to internal aswell as external pressures and movements for the past 150 years(as brilliantly highlighted by Professor Inaba). In contrast, the¿rst legislation (regulating the export of cultural objects) for
PNG was introduced by colonial authorities in 1913 in the thenTerritory of Papua; these laws have obviously evolved givenchanging local attitudes and international standards, but not tothe same degree as in Japan. The National Cultural Property(Preservation) Act, PNG’s primary legislation that protects
cultural properties (cultural heritage in PNG is largely restricted
to archaeological/historical objects and the intangible), has abroad de¿nition for what constitutes cultural property; at thesame time however, enforcement remains problematic. Secondly,
Japan has a highly organised bureaucracy which translates into
effective cultural heritage management. Here, experts exist at
national and prefectural government levels, as well as in themunicipalities and local communities. In PNG, the bureaucracy
is highly centralised and so are its responsibilities. This makes
provincial governments null, but also has the added consequenceof concentrating the handful of cultural heritage professionals
PNG has at one level of bureaucracy (i.e. national level), so thatexpertise and knowledge that can be gained from operating at theother levels are not adequately considered. Thirdly, in Japan,
procedures and methods for dealing with cultural properties anddoing archaeology are set out in black and white; for example,
there are guidelines for how to take a photograph of anarchaeological object and a site (as we learned from Mr
Nakamura and Mr Sugimoto respectively). In PNG, guidelines
for such activities in some cases either do not exist or are not as
detailed or indeed are unknown outside of those stakeholders
who directly deal with such matters. Fourth, (the shortage of)funding for cultural heritage management is an issue in all
countries globally (as pointed out by Mr Wijesuriya), including
Japan but more so for PNG. Finally, there is a shortage of local
archaeologists and cultural heritage experts in PNG; this isproblematic given the size, cultural and linguistic diversity, and
50,000-year history of human settlement in PNG. Hundreds oftrained Japanese conservators and archaeologists are employedat the various tiers of bureaucracy, creating a large, organised
network of professionals with shared goals. In contrast, there are
more local archaeologists employed in, for example, the Hyogo
Prefectural Museum of Archaeology, than in all of PNG (whoare directly involved in the discipline)! While being a small
group has its advantages (especially with developing expertise
when working together or with international collaborators), it
also means we cannot expand our work across the country as wewould like.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

The Japanese approach to cultural heritage management is surely
one of the more detailed, rigid yet adaptable systems practiced
globally. The recognition that the protection and preservation ofcultural property is paramount exists not only in the higher
echelons of Japanese politics and governance (e.g., the creationof Bunkacho, the Agency for Cultural Affairs), but more
importantly, it is shown in the actions of everyday Japanesecitizens, whether that be locals protecting the Nagareyama
Tumulus (Umami-kyuryo Park) from complete destruction fromroad work in the 1970s, or the creation today of voluntary groups
such as the Nara Palace Site Support Network (NPO Heijo) or
the citizen archaeologists of the Nara Archaeology Club (NaraCity Archaeological Research Centre). In light of this, it isperhaps unjust to compare cultural heritage management
approaches in Japan and Papua New Guinea (PNG) in certain
aspects, especially given the obvious differences in bothcountries. However, it is safe to say that much can be learned
from the Japanese experience in terms of protections, and canindeed be encouraged and implemented in PNG.

The knowledge, experiences and insights I have gained as aresult of this Training Course are numerous and it will take time
for me to review and assess what is applicable in my context, andhow best I can utilise such information. However, on the onset I
wish to make a few remarks. There are two mediums through I
can use my newly-found knowledge – teaching, and research.
With teaching, some of the more practical aspects of the course,such as the photography of objects and measured drawings, canbe directly transferred to undergraduate classes in archaeology at
the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG) where I am
currently employed. Also, while our archaeology program is of ahigh standard, it concentrates largely on archaeological methods
and research, while not placing emphasis on the management
aspect of cultural properties. This is where I can apply aspects ofthis training to suit my context. Indeed, our program includes ashort-course for undergraduates/professionals called ‘Cultural
Heritage Management’ but that has not been offered for sometime (largely funding and administrative issues); if it were to berevived in the near future, I can certainly see myself contributing
to its running. In terms of research, and on a more personal level,
the training has reinforced my understandings of the importanceof archaeological objects and cultural sites, as well as identifying
and recognising their values and associated attributes (Mr King’s
engaging lectures).
In all, the Training Course has been extremely bene¿cial to me109both professionally and personally. Again, there are aspects thatare not applicable to archaeological research/cultural
management in PNG, but certainly the theory and some of thepractical work can be applied to my context.
Finally, it would be amiss for me not to make mention of those
who made this possible; I acknowledge and thank the AsiaPaci¿c Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU Nara) and its
wonderful staff, the Agency for Cultural Affairs, Japan

Group Training Course (Final Report)
110(Bunkacho), the International Centre for the Study of the
Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM),
the Nara Prefectural Government, and the Nara City Government.
I also thank all the participating lecturers and cultural heritage
experts and volunteers, as well as the wonderful people of Naracity. Finally, my warmest thanks and best wishes go to my peersin this Training Course, all without whom this experience would
have been signi¿cantly less rewarding.

Uzbekistan
Training Course for Young Professionals on Cultural Heritage Protection in the
Asia-Paci¿c Region 2018
Hikmatulla Hoshimov, Specialist
Prehistoric Period Department, Institute of Archaeological Research of the Academy of Sciences of the Republicof Uzbekistan

Moreover, in this training course the participants had the chance
to visit World Heritage sites in Japan and make ¿eld visits to
many museums and archaeological sites in Nara, Osaka, andKyoto prefectures. This training course gave me the chance toobtain new knowledge and experiences that I will be able toapply to my work in Uzbekistan.
I am aware that all of the research, excavation, conservation andwork to establish a museum can be realized only with support
and permission from the government.
I also learned much from the lectures about topics such as thecurrent situation and issues of the International Charter for theConservation and Restoration of Monuments and Sites, thecurator systems, Japanese museums, current issues of Japanesenational museums, the foundation of cultural properties
administration in Japan, the Museum Act and also about
important organizations and systems of work related to World
Cultural Heritage, such as ICOM, ICCROM, etc.
Conservation
Conservation is very important for cultural properties collections,which include diverse types of objects such as ceramics, metal,stone and wood, etc. Through the lectures and observations in thistraining I have learned much about the processes of conservationof objects, how to use different methods and techniques. For
example, the various processes of conservation include cleaning,
drying, sketching, taking photos, making reports and using a
database to save information about objects. One more aspect is theuse of various equipment for analysis, which can be very importantfor conserving cultural property items.
Photography and Recording
Photographic documentation is part of the initial processing of anaccession, and a comprehensive photographic inventory is kept.
Photographs are thus taken when an object enters storage of themuseum and also, before and after conservation work.
Understanding the importance of photographic documentation for
subsequent research and restoration, and learning step by step thebasic technique of how to make precise images of artefacts, andhow to document and manage image ¿les, made me realize thatphotographic documentation work at my institute of archaeologicalresearch is not up to an adequate standard, because most of the time
our photographs are not helpful for conducting future research.
Storage
I visited many storage facilities in the museums and archaeologicalresearch centers and found very good interesting examples. Thesecan provide me with models for my country in dealing with issues
such as how to sort materials when putting them in storage, andpreservation matters such as dividing according to the appropriate
environment for a particular artifact, because different types need
to be kept at different ranges of temperature and humidity.
Museums and Laboratories
Some museums have been constructed nearby historical sites after
research or excavation has been conducted at those sites. The aim
is to link the landscape with the artifacts and works of art whichwere found at those sites, in order to provide visitors the chance tovisit both the museums and the historical sites. I think this isimportant. Some examples of the site museums are the following.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Introduction
The training program in Nara provided me with a lot ofknowledge, such as knowledge of the history of Japan,
archaeological excavation, working in the laboratory, museum
management, wooden architecture, planning and arranging an
exhibition, temperature control in the exhibition hall, lighting,packing cultural heritage objects, and many other topics
including the volunteer activities of citizens and students.

• Nara Palace Sites Museum• Nara National Museum• Kitora Tumulus Mural Museum, a Special Historic Site wherevisitors can learn the historic value of the Kitora Tumulus andmural paintings• Nagareyama Tumulus, Umami Kyuryo Park
• Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Archaeology• Todai-ji Temple• Imperial Villa Garden Site of the Ancient Nara Capital
Artifacts found during excavation such as pottery, metal objects,
roof titles, wooden tablets and other items need to be studied andworked on in the laboratory before being put on display in an
exhibition. The tasks involved include cleaning, joining brokenparts, documentation and so on, as we saw done at the Nara
National Research Institute for Cultural Properties. Museums
need to have conservation laboratories for analyzing and checking
objects before conducting work, to prevent any harm to thematerials. Sometimes it is necessary to conduct an X-ray check to
examine the interior part of an object before proceeding withconservation prior to exhibiting, as we saw done at the Hyogo
Prefectural Museum of Archaeology and Nara National ResearchInstitute for Cultural Properties. Now I understand that the system
of management for the protection of cultural heritage in Japan is
also a good way to contribute to the education of visitors. The

111

museums utilize the space within the museums by dividing it into
lecture rooms, exhibition rooms, storage and conservation rooms,
souvenir shops and restaurants, etc. Storage space and conservation
facilities must be compatible with the exhibition room. They takepermanent care of all artifacts in the museum and have a goodcommunication with other museums for loaning items. Museums
have specialized curators, for example an archaeology museum
must have an archaeology expert, conservation experts, planningand exhibition experts, etc. I could see that the case of Japan is an
example of good practice in these matters.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

Local Community Involvement at the Nara Palace Site
I was very interested in seeing examples of cooperation with thelocal community, such as the organization and activities of The
Nara Palace Site Support Network. It is very important to encourage
participation by people who are very close to and familiar with theheritage sites. This is one way to help involve the local people inefforts to conserve the heritage site. In my country there are manyarchaeological and historical sites but the government does notencourage citizens to participate in their care, and sometime historicsites have been destroyed because the central authorities could notlook after them well enough. I am going to promote this example
for developing cooperation with local communities.
Consolation
During the month-long training course on Cultural Heritage
Protection in Asia and the Paci¿c 2018, I have learned through thelectures, practical works, and case studies. I have obtained muchknowledge and observed many of Japan’s methods regarding thepreservation and management of archaeological sites such as
excavation, conservation, storage systems and other aspects of theprotection of cultural heritage. In Japan, in addition to research at
the excavation site, the management of site museums andcommunity cooperation such as the volunteer work done by local
residents who help maintain the sites helps spread knowledge ofancient sites in each area. I found this training program very usefuland I am very glad to take back this knowledge and experience. I
promise to use this knowledge and experience from this training
course to teach to all of the staff at the Institute of ArchaeologicalResearch, Uzbek Academy of Science.
Japan keeps looking ahead of the others right into the future,moving on and meeting the requirements of the time by broadly
developing the spheres of science and technology, giving
opportunities for both its local and international researchers like us
to study such a discipline with the help of brilliant professors andtutors, investing in promising technological start-ups, creating
great facilities for World Cultural Heritage and establishing proper
institutions, while also maintaining high collaboration with manyother countries around the world, which has a remarkably positiveinÀuence on developments within Japan itself.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Director of the
ACCU Nara Of¿ce, the Director of the National Institute forCultural Heritage, and the Director of the Nara National
Researching Institute for Cultural Properties. I would like toexpress my warm thanks to ACCU Nara staff members Mr.
Nakai, Ms. Suzuki, Interpreter Ms. Hata, and assistants Mr.
Wakizono and Ms. Fukami for paying attention and looking afterme the entire time during the training to make it more convenient.
I also want to express my thanks to all of the lecturers in each of
the museums in Nara and elsewhere, and for the lectures about
management, restoration, and recording for the documentationand protection of cultural heritage! This training is very importantfor me for my work in the Institute of Archaeological Research,
Uzbekistan Academy of Science.

Todai-ji Temple
Discussion with members of Archaeology Club
Laboratory of NNRICP

Storage and conservation work
(Hyogo Prefectural Museum)

112

Cultural properties photo documentation lecture

Visit to archaeological sites

Viet Nam
PRESERVATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES:LESSONS FROM JAPANDo Truong Giang, Head
Department of Information and International Cooperation, Institute of Imperial Citadel Studies, Vietnam
Academy of Social Sciences

During the one-month program at ACCU Nara, we haveparticipated in three groups of activities including (1) a series oflectures about global trends in the preservation of archaeologicalsites, delivered by Mr. Gamini and Mr. Joseph King from
ICCROM, as well as lectures about the protection of culturalproperties in Japan given by Japanese scholars; (2) a series ofworkshops about recording and documenting archaeologicalartefacts as well as on conservation science for archaeologicalartefacts and sites, guided by Japanese archaeologists from
Nabunken (Nara National Research Institute for Cultural
Properties) and Nara city; (3) a series of on-site studies at manymuseums and archaeological sites both in and out of Nara city.
1. Trends in protection, preservation of cultural heritage inthe world and in JapanThe lectures delivered by Mr. Gamini and Mr. Joseph King from
ICCROM provided us with a general yet comprehensive
background about global trends in the ¿eld of protection of thecultural heritage. We were introduced to the historicaldevelopment of the cultural heritage protection ¿eld from a
global perspective as well as the international bodies/agencies
that are directly involved in and create trends in the ¿eld such as
UNESCO, ICOM, ICOMOS, and ICCROM.
The lectures about the Japanese system of cultural heritage
protection provided us a general picture about the situation in
Japan. These lectures, in combination with the series of on-site
tours, explained why Japan is considered a leading player increating trends and methods for cultural heritage protection.
The activities of Nabunken and the management at the Narapalace site were great examples illustrating the advanced natureof Japanese-style cultural heritage protection. Once while
visiting the Nara palace site, we observed that there is acombination of various methods used in presenting the cultural
heritage with the on-site museums, the assistance of modern

technology, the preservation of the archaeological site, and thereconstruction of old buildings. We learned that Japanesearchaeologists are playing a crucial role in this process.
2. Museum as a cultural hub for communities
During the training course at ACCU Nara 2018, we visited manymuseums in the Kansai region, including various types andlevels of museums such as national museums (National Museumof Ethnology in Osaka), prefectural museums (Hyogo Prefectural
Museum of Archaeology in Kobe), city museums (Tumulus
Museum), private museums. This shows us how diverse andadvanced the system of museums is in Japan.
There are several good points that I have learned from visiting
museums in Japan.
Firstly, new methods of exhibiting the objects. In the past, mostof artefacts were put into display cabinets or cases and visitors
could only see them from a certain distance. The situation,
however, has changed comprehensively in almost all museums
in Japan. As I have observed, the museums here are trying toapply a new way of exhibiting the objects, or in other words,
they are letting the artefacts to tell their own stories to visitorswith the assistance of modern technology. The combination of
traditional and modern ways of exhibition could be seen at the
Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Archaeology where visitors could
still see some nostalgic glass cases displaying objects like in theold days, and they can also see the new integrated and interactive
exhibitions.

Group Training Course (Final Report)

The 19th training course of ACCU Nara has contributed
signi¿cantly to my professional career in many aspects.
Knowledge of the principles and methodologies for cultural
heritage protection from global as well as Japanese perspectives
is very important for us. We have had a great opportunity to be
trained in basic knowledge and techniques in the ¿elds ofinvestigation, preservation and management of archaeologicalsites. Much of the course content is relevant to my current
professional work, including the skills-based techniques for
documentation and analysis, as well as for the preservation andmanagement of archaeological sites and archaeological artefacts.

Secondly, cooperation between museums and local communities.
Most of the museums in the Kansai region where we visited are
implementing good cooperative programs between the museum
and the local community. The activities of the Nara Palace Site
Support Network (NPO Heijo) for the new Nara Palace Museum
is one of the best examples of this cooperation. Japan’s museums
are a good example for the targeted goal set by ICOM Kyoto
2019 of “Museums as Cultural Hubs: The Future of Tradition.”
Despite the many good things that we could learn from Japanesemuseums, there is still room for improvement in the future.
Some museums, the Hyogo Prefectural Museum for example,
are facing decreases in the numbers of annual visitors and arestruggling to deal with this situation. Many solutions have been
implemented such as disseminating museum information to theschools or train stations to obtain the targeted visitors’ attention.
This conventional method of marketing, however, is not as
effective as expected, as the Hyogo Museum staff revealed. This113

seems to be a universal problem that many museums around theworld are faced with. To deal with this situation, I think thatmuseums need to launch new marketing strategies, especiallyapplying new online technologies (using Facebook ads, Google
ads or email marketing) to reach their targeted audiences. In
combination with this, museums themselves also need to invent
new activities and programs to get more visitors. It is worth
making more effort to cooperate with tourism agencies to bringmore tourists to visit museums as well.

Group Training Course (Final Report)
114

3. Lessons for cultural heritage protection in Vietnam.
The Institute of Imperial Citadel Studies - IICS (former namewas Research Centre for Imperial Cities) was established in2011 with the immediate task to research and evaluate the valuesof Thăng Long Imperial Citadel. IICS’s functions include doing
fundamental and in-depth research on Vietnam’s ancientcitadels, providing scienti¿c evidence for planning strategy,
preserving and promoting the value of Vietnamese cultural
heritage, participating in training high quality human resourcesin academic ¿elds related to imperial citadels and museums, andpreserving the ancient heritage of Vietnam.
Being a scholar at the Institute of Imperial Citadel Studies (IICS)
means that I am committed to contributing my best for the taskof promoting cultural heritage in Vietnam. Our long-term vision
is to build a standard database system of Vietnam’s ancientcitadels throughout history in the areas of archaeology, history,

culture, religion, and social life; to expand the investigation,
excavation, and archaeological research of the remains ofpolitical and cultural centres of the historic dynasties in an
attempt to comparatively study and evaluate the architecture,
history, culture, and daily life of the dynasties on various aspects;
to develop conservation science and museology; and to develop
the applied sciences. With the professional knowledge I havelearned from the ACCU Nara program, I strongly believe that I
can make an important contribution in turning IICS’s long-term
vision into reality.
Since the Thang Long Citadel Archaeological Relic site has been
discovered, it has received special attention from the entire
nation. The project of exhibiting the archaeological artefacts andrelics under the grounds of the Vietnam National AssemblyHouse undertook by Institute of Imperial Citadel Studies (IICS)
could be seen as a typical pattern of how to deal with conservationand development of urban archaeological sites. Our goal is tolink the conservation of heritage with contemporary life, bring
the heritage values to the people, serve the people and contributeto promoting economic and social development with thetransmission of messages embodying these cultural heritage
values in professional, authentic and engaging ways, all at thesame time. The lessons that I learned from Japanese museums
could help us in various aspects, especially in developing a longterm plan to have more citizens and tourists participate in our
museums’ activities in the future.

III. Regional Workshop
Training Reports

Regional WorkShop

Mr Nakamura (centre) explaining the camera function

Milika Pomana
Assistant Senior Program Ofﬁcer
Culture Division, Ministry of Tourism, Tonga

This one-week workshop organized by ACCU Nara and the Fiji Museum has enabled participants to take part in large
number in a training. In this collaboration between these two cultural institutions, all 15 participants –14 of which arelocal people (Fijian) working on cultural heritage related ¿elds around the country, plus myself from the neighbouring
island of Tonga came together to learn, practice and share experiences based on the various topics covered during theworkshop.
As with the theme of the workshop – documenting cultural heritage, the topics taught during the week included that of;measured drawings, ink rubbing and techniques in photographing cultural objects. All these skills were taught andpracticed and the gathered information were transferred into organizing cards and from there to artefact cards. The wholecourse of topics Àowing into the theme whereby at the end of the week, we had in our possession an artefact card with theinformation we have worked on during the week.
The ¿rst three days focused on; pottery measured drawings, sorting, sketching and ink rubbing of (Lapita) potsherds. I
found it daunting to try to complete the exercises in measured drawing as drawing is not one of my strongest skills, but
the instructor was very clear and detailed in his descriptions and demonstrations, that I succeeded in completing thisexercise successfully although in my line of work and from the country I am from, I am unlikely to be working withpottery as artefacts. As with the ink rubbing session, this was very interesting as we prepared everything from scratch,
beginning with making the small round tool used to dip into the ink jar to rub onto the paper covered potsherd. From thecare and skill in making and preparing this tool, to the amount of pressure applied in rubbing so as not to damage the paper
or to have the patterns come out too dark and unclear, I found the session in ink rubbing informative and a skill that will
be useful in my line of work. The processes in tapa making in Tonga involves rubbing of mangrove or red clay dyes into
plain tapa cloth/ textile with the stencils underneath so that the designs appear in the cloth. Thus, why I found the ink
rubbing topic not only very interesting but also very useful to learn of this technique and the tools used in Japan for thispractice.

Overall, this training has provided fundamental basic knowledge, skills and know-how that are very useful in my line ofwork in our national museum especially when it comes to documenting our collection. Since Tonga is still in the stage ofreviving their national museum, this training has come just at the right time in assisting museum staff like myself withskills and added experience in vital museum work skills such as documenting cultural heritage objects. I look forward tofollow up training such as these in future – thank you very much!

Regional WorkShop

The ¿nal three days dealt with sessions on photography, with a step by step demonstration on how to set the camera,
looking at shutter speed, aperture and white balance to name a few. We were also given a demonstration on how to set up
a set for the photo shoot before the object was put in place for the shoot. The preparations that go into a seemingly
simple task of taking photographs are remarkable and having experienced this, I gained valuable insights andappreciation of this art and practice and especially when used in museums to document its objects or artefacts.

117Ana Tauyavu Taoi
Assistant Information and Planning Ofﬁcer
Fiji Arts Council

I have learnt that more can be done to preserve cultural properties and there are different methods that could be applied topreserve heritage arts. As I am working for the Fiji Arts Council, and its role and important task of preserving, revitalizing
and promoting of all art forms which currently includes performing arts, heritage arts, visual arts, literary arts and Àoral
arts.The Fiji Arts Council is mandated to implement some activities annually such as Craft Exhibition, The National Fine
Art Exhibition and Participation at Regional Cultural Events. Some of my duties and responsibilities are to provide artistic
support and advice on request from individual and groups that represents the different art forms in Fiji, to provide technicalassessment in the areas of cultural importance wherever necessary and assist in coordinating Fiji’s participation in eventsand festivals.
After this one-week workshop, I can say that some of the topics are useful and can be implemented at the of¿ce. Proper
documentation of cultural heritage needed to be implemented at the Fiji Arts Council. As I have stated from the top, At
Fiji Arts Council, one of main things we focused on is Arts exhibition, which includes Craft and Paintings. After theexhibition and competition all these art works will be collected as Fiji Arts Council National Collections. All these needed
to be documented properly and there is no proper storage provided. After learning all these topics, I think I could implement
all these highlighted topics at my work place.
The two-lecture topics relevant to my work area are “introduction to the documentation of cultural properties” and“making and management of museum inventory.” These topics are useful and could help in documenting artefacts at myworkplace. All these methods can be applied at the Fiji Arts Council. To learn this skill step by step, I can proudly statethat I was honoured on the opportunity of being selected to be part of this useful workshop. All types of equipment thatare useful for documentation that I have learnt would be listed in my workshop report for the of¿ce to purchase in orderto document all the artworks.

Regional WorkShop
118

I understood the necessity of making an artefact card. This would be very valuable as there are different and manyartefacts that are kept and collected at my workplace but there are no proper documentation and proper storage. For ink
rubbing and measured drawing, I have understood the methodology but this would not be applied at my work place as I
am not an archaeology and these methods could be applied only at Fiji Museum but I am glad that I have learnt the topics.
As for the practical training, photography was the main topic I was looking forward to. Learning basic knowledge ofcultural properties photographs was the best as this was one of my roles and I do not have the proper skills on capturing
photos and taking good pictures.
After the six days workshop, I am able to practically apply the above methodology of classi¿cation and documentation to
my work.

Elia Nakoro
Manager
Archaeology and Gazetting Section, Fiji Museum

I ¿nd the workshop very useful and essential as a museum professional. Dealing with objects or collections, it is vital toproperly document the various objects so that it is easy to locate and refer to the objects when required. We live in a digitalworld and many at times we use cameras and a scale to capture objects however, as was alluded to during the workshop,
photographs do not offer the correct detailsʊdistortions therefore understanding the measured drawings is truly bene¿cial
in capturing the true scale of objects which enhances the details and information on the organizing and artefact card.
The Fiji Museum Archaeology Section is in a process of sorting and cleaning its storage room, and during the workshop,
I ¿nd that we lack in so many ways considering the documentation of the archaeological collection. The current collection
is generally sorted according to sites, types, researchers etc. however, the lessons learnt during the one-week training willallow the team to properly document the archaeological material collections.
The ink rubbing technique was also very interesting which can be best utilized on Lapita pot sherds that have intricate
dentate designs. Given that the Fiji Museum was donated with limited ink rubbing tools by ACCU, the team will prioritizeon the use of pieces that stand out and include this in the organizing and artefact cards.
I was captivated with the topic of photography because it is an area that we as museum professionals need to develop to
properly document the collections. Similar to the above, the training on taking photographs comes as an opportunity as
the team plans to take photos of all archaeological collections that was repackaged to allow the team and researchers toknow of the contents of the various boxes. Similarly, the team hopes to implement a bar coding system where thephotographs will be crucial for researching and database purposes.

Regional WorkShop

Overall, I wish to acknowledge ACCU and the facilitators for the wonderful opportunity in knowledge enhancement on
the proper documentation of archaeological materials. Similarly, the Fiji Museum has been overwhelmed with the kind
donation of ACCU on materials necessary for the successful implementation of what we learnt during the workshop andon behalf of the Fiji Museum management, I sincerely thank the team from ACCU and its Directors for the continuing
support of Paci¿c Islands cultural practitioners in developing capacity necessary for the preservation, protection anddocumentation of its cultural resources.

119

Hirendra Kumaran Pillay
Landscape/ Museum caretaker
BA Town Council

The knowledge acquired from this wonderful workshop will enable me to practically apply them to my museum setup as
we have a very young and limited edition of artefacts and monuments back in Ba Town. Firstly, the knowledge of
inventory is very useful to me as we don’t have a proper inventory for the limited number of artefacts and monuments.
Making of classi¿cation card, organising card, and artefacts card will surely be a challenge for me at our museum and alsomeasured drawings will be a huge challenge if undertaken at our museum as most of our monuments are very big.
Photography of artefacts and monuments will be also interesting and very useful for making of pamphlets and brochures
for the general public as well as publication for dissemination of information and details to general public and schools
especially. I am indebted to ACCU for giving me a chance to be part of this workshop and the information and training towhich I was oblivious. All in all, the things I learned here at the workshop will tremendously help me in setting up an
inventory system for our museum in Ba Town.

Regional WorkShop

Meli Nanuku Suasua
Education AssistantFiji Museum

Overall, I can say that there is a lot to take back into our individual institution, in relate to this one-week workshop we didhere in Fiji. I’m thankful for their ideas and kind hearts to share their experience, knowledge and wisdom for this workshop
and I’m con¿dent that there is a lot for us to do in our different areas of work, and mostly for a brighter partnership wehave for the future.
The curriculum they set for us in the one-week long training is into a standard that really have the quality in this modern
era. And most of all the resources they have is really encouraging to develop our own and utilize the skills we have it here.
Their value of their culture and heritage is far more than us, and importantly is their use of their own language is one toolthat really strikes me of how treasured it connects into their learning environment. These are valuable lesson that willremain with me forever. In our case here in Fiji, our multi lingual skills can be applied to our learning institution that isprogressing well now days. But the fact is that the drawing and the documentation of artefacts is something that I think itreally works well with us at the Museum to safeguard our identity. And likely is the photographic techniques with thebasic ideas connect well to get the correct information of the objects and for proper storage for easier handling andmaintenance for the future. Even for us we have our Education, Marketing, Installation and Exhibition Unit that comesunder one Department and this workshop is applicable for our education programmed in creating some activities for thechildren and the public; in correspond also with the curriculum we have it in Fiji to engaged their time in learning,
especially lifelong learning. And the materials used was so related to the needs we have that we really need to put into
force that necessity of relating our different units to be a holistic institution for all citizens of this nation Fiji.

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Iliesa Koroi
Technical AssistantSouth Paci¿c Regional Herbarium, University of South Paci¿c

The one-week Workshop facilitated by the ACCU in collaboration with the Fiji Museum has really been an eye opener. I
have learnt how to sort pottery pieces from various designs, ink rubbing, a little bit of measured drawing and I think theone which I could relate to the most is photography. I have also had the opportunity to meet new friends from Japan andother government agencies in Fiji.
Firstly, I would like to point out that of all the participants which attended the workshop this week, I was probably the odd
one out. As most of the participants hand prior knowledge of working with archaeological artefacts, as a botanist I dealt
with herbarium voucher specimens. In a way, I could relate the importance of the systematic labelling, storage (inventory)
and digitization of archaeological artefacts. This is part and partial of work done at the South Paci¿c Regional Herbariumwith thousands of voucher specimens from various taxa (plants, herpetofauna, avifauna etc.) deposited there. Without asystematic way of inventory and storage, digging through all these piles of specimens.
More speci¿cally, at the South Paci¿c Regional Herbarium it is important to understand how voucher specimens are
stored for future references. There is a systematic way of how plant specimens are stored based on their evolution withrespect to their individual families (this differs from one herbarium to another). Our plant collection begins with terrestrial
bryophytes, ferns to complex gymnosperms and angiosperms. All plant specimens that are deposited at the Herbarium
have labels (similar to artefacts card), its respective accession number, collection number, picture taken (using mechanismof photography, exposure setting, lighting, colour temperature and shooting techniques) and all this are digitized andstored into a database. Handling of herbarium voucher specimens along with archaeological artefacts should be done in a
cautious manner as they both fragile and are easily damaged.

This six days’ workshop was a very challenging and also very intensive for me as a Conservation Of¿cer. This type ofworkshop was to assist cultural heritage institutions and museums in the Paci¿c region to improve the protection of ourcultural heritage on a sustainable basis. The six days workshop offered by ACCU was properly targeted for its purpose of
documenting and photographing skills in cultural heritage protection and preservation by participants. The experience ofthe group training equipped me as a Conservation Of¿cer to implement what I have learnt from these professional trainers
within the six days’ workshop. I further realized that more training should be introduced in the cultural institutions here
in Fiji and also to the neighbouring countries in the Paci¿c in protecting our Cultural Heritage Identity.

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Mereia Naivota Luvunakoro
Conservation Ofﬁcer
Fiji Museum

What I learnt in this one-week workshop really applies to my work that I do in the Museum. I work mostly with objects
like clays, wooden objects and textiles and one of the main purposes of my work is documentation of each object looking
from the conservation aspect. Photographic technique work sessions 1-5 were very useful to my work knowledge. Despite
the short duration of this workshop, I myself have grasped some techniques to apply when I return to work. It came to an
extend that taking images of objects is very important especially when getting a high quality of an image for a record
keeping. This also will help other researchers to know and understand what types of images are taken by viewing each
artefact cards. This has the photograph of the whole object, the ink rubbing image and its cross-section image. This makes
the work much easier and also much safer in terms of protecting our cultural objects. Lesser handling is put on objects.
Just to conclude, I would like to encourage more training to be held in future. Thank you and Arigato.

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Jeremaia Vakacegu Veisa
Digitization AssistantFiji Museum

My line of work involves the digitization of the Fiji Museum analogue audio and visual materials as well as photography.
The workshop has equipped me in terms of understanding the classi¿cation of pottery shards together with the preparationof the organizing and artefact cards. More importantly, the ink rubbing process and the measured drawing which has
given me a practical understanding of measuring and drawing that can be applied to the Fiji Museum artefacts. The
session that I was looking forward to, was the photography session as this is where my interest is and where my work isaligned.
The knowledge obtained from the workshop is valuable to the work carried out at the Fiji Museum, especially for theCollections and Conservation Unit. Documentation of collections received is an important process and photography ofsuch collections is of utmost importance. In understanding the exposure setting (function of aperture, shutter speed),lighting, color temperature (white balance), shooting technique, capturing the details of the artefact will allow for keeping
track records of the condition of the artefacts. Given the limited knowledge that I have, this workshop has given me somebasic understanding to carry out the necessary work for my Unit. Furthermore, the cataloguing and storage system of thephotographs is vital in the Àuid access of information together with the safety and protection of such information.
Measured drawing is also an important aspect in documentation. Some objects in the Fiji Museum collection would mostcertainly require measured drawings such as that of complete clay potteries. The conservation of¿cer has also attended
the workshop and this, I believe, is an added advantage as handling of such objects needs to be cautious; and measured
drawings require handling and measuring instruments coming into contact with the objects. The conservation of¿cer will
have an idea of precautionary measures taken before the measured drawings. The training has provided the most basic
tools in completing these drawings and we were fortunate to be recipients.

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Moreover, our Archaeology team usually request other technical staffs to accompany them to their ¿eld work on oldvillage sites and old forti¿cation sites in Fiji. This training prepares the trainee to have some understanding in identifying
pottery shards and differentiate between the unique and older forms of pottery (Lapita) to the more later dated potteries.
Given the small staff that the Archaeology Section has, staff who have undergone the ACCU training can assist the teamin the documentation process of sorting and documenting the pottery shards. This is also advantageous as staff are multiskilled in Museum work.
All in all, the one-week workshop has been a fruitful experience and has taken us out of our comfort zone or outside our¿eld of work. I extend my gratitude to the Asia-Paci¿c Cultural Centre for UNESCO (ACCU) and the Fiji Museum fororganizing the training; the trainers/ facilitators for their resourcefulness and bestowing their knowledge to the participants;
and the participants for an engaging in interactive discussions and forming a professional relationship in the protection ofcultural heritage.

Kolaia Raisele
Executive Ofﬁcer
iTaukei Institute of Language and Culture

The workshop by ACCU is a very informative and important workshop, especially for a country such as Fiji where there
are many cultural properties. These cultural properties are beginning to be forgotten due to global interconnectedness andhave not been valorized; however, this workshop has emphasized the technical requirements of protecting culturalproperties especially for cultural stakeholders in Fiji.
One of the important lessons that I have learned from this workshop is treating our cultural properties with great care andrespect. This is through detail classi¿cation, preparing necessary catalogue requirements such as creating cards andartefacts card, accurate measured drawing, and the different techniques of taking photos of each artefact. It has alsoemphasized the need to pay attention to details when it comes to protecting cultural properties, as any detail, big or small,has a story behind them.
This workshop is useful in my department, the iTaukei Institute of Language and Culture. The iTaukei Institute of
Language and Culture, under the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs provides policy advice on the study and the development of
iTaukei language and culture in addition to the formulation and implementation of appropriate policies for the
documentation, preservation, promotion and dissemination of information on all facets of iTaukei language and culture.
The department is also mandated to carry out an inventory exercise known as the Cultural Mapping Program (CMP)
which began in Fiji in 2004 and is currently on the 14th and last province this year. This inventorying exercise is in line
to the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) in which Fiji rati¿ed in January 2010.
Although the department main focus is to document intangible cultural heritage of each village in Fiji, however, as it isapparent to indigenous communities across the world, the intangible aspect (or the story) cannot exist without the tangibleor the artefacts. The ICH gives meaning to the artefacts, and vice versa. Therefore, during this inventorying exercise(CMP), our ¿eld of¿cers have been privileged to be given unique artefacts from locals, and these artefacts are kept in ourof¿ce.

Thus, the knowledge learned from this workshop is very useful in the iTaukei Institute of Language and Culture,
considering the numerous unique and special artefacts that are displayed in the department. Through this workshop,
artefacts in the department will have a proper cataloging system, with each artefact having an artefact card, and possibly
for a database of these artefacts in the near future. Through this workshop, proper photographs will be carried on each
artefact and have a measured drawing for some of them. Adopting the knowledge from this workshop is very useful in thesense that the department deals with researches on a daily basis and with the techniques learned from this workshop,
artefacts will be protected from physical damage since researches can just look at the organizing card, artefacts card, andpictures of them.

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The department also conducts Special Revitalization Workshop (SRU), where speci¿c ICH or traditional knowledge of aparticular village which are on the verge of disappearing due to knowledge bearers being of old age, are being revitalized
so that it can be continued and transmitted to the upcoming generation. Most of the Revitalization Workshop that the
department has conducted deals with the ICH domain of traditional craftsmanship, and some of these crafts/artefacts are
kept in the department.

Lastly, a big ‘Vinaka vakalevu’ to ACCU Nara for giving their time, funds, and resources to come over to Fiji to teachthese important lessons of protecting our cultural properties, and in the broader sense, the protection of our identity.
Sa re vaxalevu.

123

Paula Qeranatabua
Library AssistantLibrary Services of FijiFirstly, I would to thank ACCU team for this workshop. I really enjoyed it because I got to learn a lot of new things. The
workshop was interesting because the ¿rst part was dealing with pottery and how to maintain its parts that has been
discovered. How to separate the parts of the pottery from the plain rim, the plain body, grooved body and the nubbin. That
every piece is counted that all the pieces have to be sketched and entered in the artefacts card. Even the height and widthof the pottery have to be taken. I also learnt a lot about ink rubbing and how important it is in this ¿eld of work. The ink
shows all the patterns on pieces of pottery. Even though the pottery is old, it has important designs.
To compare to my work in the library, it is the same as doing cataloguing. Every detail of the book has to be written down.
This will help us maintain the book and know which section the book belongs to. Like sorting the different pieces ofartefacts, in the library we have to sort the books into different sections. It teaches us that the information the book has isstill important even though it is old.
I also learn a lot about photography because it teaches us that all the artefacts have to be taken because they are allimportant. Even if it has designs on it, they also have to be taken. All designs are important enough to be put in theartefacts cards. In photography, we learnt how to use the camera and how to focus with a camera, how to take photographof an object from the side and from the top, how to block out the light and how to control the light on an object.

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124

For my work in the library this will help me maintaining the condition of the book. The methodology of taking photographsof the book will help us know the condition of the book. When it was given to the schools and when we go to audit in thelibrary, we can then compare the book to the photograph. If books have their cover torn out or if the book gets stolen, we
can know if the book belongs to Library Services of Fiji in this way. Also, we can know if the library has alreadypurchased the book. We can take this photograph and paste it along with the catalogue cards. In addition, photography
helps us take pictures of our new users in the library rather than sending them back to his or her passport size photo. It is
helpful for our library set-up when we take pictures before and after it because we use this pictures for our report and we
can know the condition of the library.

Salanieta Marama Rakarawa
Assistant Conservator
National Archives of FijiThis workshop is very unique as it is the ¿rst of its type to be conducted in Fiji, and I am thankful that though I am aconservator from the National Archives of Fiji, I was selected to attend, and I found that this was relevant to my ¿eld ofwork.I have learnt that detailed documentation is very important in not only describing an artefact or a group of records,
it will also create data that will be very useful for researchers. I have also learnt that documentation is very useful when
one wants to ¿nd a single item, and that is where the artefact card comes in handy, as it is a description of a single pieceof pottery or heritage. Documentation right down to the individual item is very important to the inventory of a museum
and archives too.
What I have learnt from the measured drawing sessions that I could use in my work was the details of the dimensions
before and after a restoration of a document or an archival volume. These are important aspects as all treatments andrestorative works of archives are not permanent and are required to be reversible, so documentation of every
process is very important. They are useful references too for future workers who might want to con¿rm if a record had
previously undergone treatment.
Photography in conservation processes is a new thing to the conservation unit of the National Archives of Fiji (NAF), andcurrently we are using a lightweight basic function camera for documenting treatment processes, and lighting was neverconsidered an important part of this. But the photography lectures and practical sessions has helped me to understandareas where recording our work can be improved.
Also, very important to learn was the storage media of raw data as in digital photographs, actual photographs and thedifferent materials which ¿lms are made from. Most important too is the conditions of storage, that air conditioning
lengthens the life of storage medias and records, and most importantly is the relative humidity should be at the right range,i.e., not too humid and not too dry. This information is not new to my ¿eld of archival conservation, and what I founduseful in this regard was that there are different levels of relative humidity for different medias.

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What was very interesting to me was the area of photography settings, how we have to custom make the white balance
requirement, and the details of setting the ISO and shutter speed as these details actually affect the quality of your image.
Another point of interest to me was the light settings, and that one doesn’t need to have the latest technology to produce
a quality image. We can improvise from the equipment and tools that we currently have, but a good camera like the Canonor Nikon brand will produce the best results. As long as we have a good understanding of our ¿nal product which is: agood quality photograph, ink rubbing and the calculations of measured drawings of the piece of heritage, we will have agood inventory of the items in our care in museums, and in the case of my work the archives conservation unit processes
and records department too.
Arigato gozaimasu
Vinaka.

125

Unaisi Manulevu
Project Ofﬁcer
iTaukei Trust Fund Board

The topics covered during the week-long workshop were very informative, enlightening and useful for my line of work
as a project of¿cer responsible for the development of a new Cultural Centre, and also for the types of culture and heritage
projects administered by the iTaukei Trust Fund Board.
At ¿rst, I was captivated by the meticulous ways of which data is extracted from basically sorting and classifying pottery
shards. I have never thought of how excavated materials can be studied closely and documented in a very organizedmanner. The results can be overwhelming because the layer of soil from which the artefacts/shards were extracted could
determine a certain time in our history. As the layers of soil increases, the motifs or design on the pottery shards alsochange to signify historical transition or time periods. This is valuable information, which will be useful for the Cultural
Centre in terms of documentation and collections management. I was also captivated by how ACCU pays close attention
to detail and accuracy using crucial methods of documentation such as ink rubbing and measured drawings. These methods
involve the use of innovative techniques and tools of measuring artefacts for accurate recording of data and information.
I learnt that measured drawings are not sketches (as usually done by architects or draftsmen), but they are exact
measurements of the artefact. Many thanks to the ACCU for donating some of the measuring tools and devices to assist
us in implementing what we have learnt, as they will be very useful with our current and future collections, and research.
However, when we look at the innovations some tools involve the use of very simple materials, while others involve
sophisticated methods. We may think we are under-resourced with tools and techniques, but we in Fiji need to determine
what local materials can be used as substitutes to achieve the same results. For e.g. what can we use instead of theJapanese marking combs and how can we develop our own?

Regional WorkShop

Organizing and recording data in a systematic manner made me realize that each artefact contains a signi¿cant amount ofdata. The Àowchart of recording and organizing artefacts showed me that the more we separate artefacts according tosome categories, the more assumptions we can make about them. For instance, pottery shards were sorted and classi¿edinto major categories such as dentate, incised, paddled-impressed and plain. But these were broken down into smaller
categories or separated according to whether they are body parts, or rim parts of a pottery. The most signi¿cant ones wereselected for ink rubbing and measured drawings. This process is crucial in archaeology and anthropology and must be
adopted to enhance research outcomes for Museums and Cultural Centres. Personally, I have learnt to take documentation
measures seriously, and begin applying them in the workplace. Inadequate efforts and resources are invested into
documentation of physical properties with culture and historic signi¿cance. The Great Council of Chiefs Building forexample, needs proper documentation and research in order to preserve original data/information. To prevent original
data from deterioration, a lot of attention needs to be given to systematic recording and documentation of data. The
accuracy of recorded data could also improve ef¿ciency and accessibility.
In the photography lectures and practical sessions, I learnt how to take photographs of cultural properties with af¿liateddata. The sessions were very useful because photography and shooting techniques if not carefully observed, could alter or
reproduce the images and data. I only wished the practical sessions were longer so I could master the skills of photography.
Nevertheless, they were very fruitful because it has helped me to look at artefacts holistically and not only from a certain
angle.
Data maintenance and preservation are critical issues for most institutions in Fiji, due to lack of technical expertise andconducive environmental conditions. It is sad that most recorded information in cultural databases have degraded anddeteriorated because they were not well maintained. Without databases (which are often expensive to buy) we could begin
listing down objects/artefacts and their images. I learnt that photographs in TIFF and JPEG have signi¿cant data and must
be preserved in the database, because once they are shared/resized /copied etc. the image quality changes and data altered.

126

Vaciseva Kulila Tibeqa
Assistant Policy Research Ofﬁcer
Department of Heritage and ArtsThe Department of Heritage Arts is the government institution through the World Heritage Unit that speci¿cally focuseson the preservation of our cultural heritage sites, monuments and buildings in Levuka. As Levuka Historical Port Town
is Fiji’s ¿rst world heritage site inscribed under the UNESCO World Heritage listing in June 2013 at the 37th session of
the World Heritage Committee. One of our main and important role is to help maintain the status, authenticity andintegrity to avoid delisting of our ¿rst World Heritage Site. The workshop is very useful in a sense that these culturalobjects are not only important but are of outstanding value. The preservation as such is also important for our future
generation as they will be able to witness and understand how we value and preserve them. How we document and record
them is vital as this will determine its long sustainability. We not only look after the tangible but intangible objects,
elements, sites as well.
In addition, the safeguarding, inventorying of this properties and objects is pivotal as the current climate evolves every
now and then, without proper security, storage climate change will affect them and this will all result to the damages of it
and all will be a waste, funding, human resources etc.
I have also learnt the basic information about photography, its features, the angles in which to take as those past collectionof photos in the of¿ce are blurry and are not of high resolution. This overall affects the image of the report that we submit.
This workshop has enabled a clear understanding of the camera settings that are very crucial as it determines the clearnessof pictures.

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On this note, the documentation of such records is useful, its backup. We have a library in the of¿ce, and from theworkshop I have learnt the importance of cataloging. I will also share in the of¿ce the way forward for its proper indexing,
cataloging for easy access of this resources and books for researchers and future generation. I’ve also learnt the set up andclimate condition of the artefacts e.g. mats, pottery and camera storage in the of¿ce. This information will also be relayedin the of¿ce so that they are safe and that nothing is damaged. The designing and measurement of pottery is also importantas you are able to know the size and measurement of where to store them, the standard in which we have to take heed of.
I am so privileged to be part of this workshop as it is one of a kind. It is my ¿rst time to attend such a workshop thatcommences and ends with practical work. I really loved it. What was learnt is practiced and helped me understand what
it is in reality. I will for sure share this information so that my colleagues are well informed as there are a lot of artefacts,
cameras, laptop, records in the of¿ce that we should protect and maintain its condition and I do hope that more of thisworkshop will be introduced for better enhancement of our knowledge.

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Veronika Selai
TR/Library AssistantLibrary Services of FijiThis ¿rst ever in country workshop for the protection of cultural heritage instilled a major impact of knowledge andexperience which enhance my learning and most of all for future reference.
I’m working in a public library, this new learning experience really broadens my knowledge and understanding of how topreserve or protect our archaeological artefacts and cultural heritage. I may not familiar with all the work that needs to bedone in the museum but I’m very grateful and blessed being part of this workshop. It really boosts my knowledge andunderstanding of how things are being handled prior to the storage and preservation of cultural heritage in the museum.
Some of the important lessons that I had gathered so far are; classi¿cation of pottery shards- I was able to have a goodunderstanding of the various types of pottery shards and its documentation. This includes making organizing card, making
artefacts card, ink rubbing, and measured drawing. Another important lesson that I have learnt is the mechanism ofphotograph and its functions. It was a bit challenging for me since I never have the experience to operate cannon camera
or any digital camera that was being used during lessons. The application of other procedures and steps were being wellpresented and delivered which made this photography lessons easy to understand and thanks to the help and advice fromthe hardworking facilitators. I had new experience with shooting technique and how to adjust and concentrate on the focus
button and white balance. It was indeed a great and interesting experience at all with all the workshop tools and equipment
being provided and easy to handle with care. Overall, all I can say that I’m blessed and overwhelmed with the greatknowledge, interesting and educational lesson now being instilled in me throughout the one-week long workshop.

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My work involves school library set-up, listing of new books, stocktaking, services at circulation desk but with regarding
to what I have learnt so far, I’ve managed to ¿gure out what should be done with the drawers full of catalogue cards, bookcards, and mostly how to deal with storage issues. Also, when making library set-up report, photos will be needed before,
during and after set-up, I now know what shooting technique I will use for accuracy and relevant information to besubmitted in the report. I will also apply my knowledge in creating database for recording data during stock take by using
Microsoft excel, access.
Upon completing six days of the workshop, I now have a clear understanding of the important of the main theme of theworkshop and how it related to our day to day routine at work, as for me working in a different environment apart fromFiji Museum, Heritage and Arts Council Department I somehow able to put the pieces or sections of the workshop together.
And manage to create a sense of belonging with regarding to the protection and documentation of our artefacts.
So, overall, I would like to acknowledge the facilitators for the interesting and educational deliverables, by being able todeliver the three lessons i.e. the documentation of artefacts, ink rubbing and photography with hard work and commitments.
Despite the translation process of the language being used I was able to gauge the main purpose of the workshop withpatience and good understanding. A big Vinaka Vakalevu to ACCU Japan team.

IV. International Workshop
Case Study Reports

On-site study in Imai-cho, Nara prefectureInternational Workshop

Cambodia
The Preservation on Cambodian Historical City –Case Study of Battambang City–
Sisowath Men Chandevy, Vice Rector
Royal University of Fine Arts, Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts

The kingdom of Cambodia has begun its history many thousand
years ago. The remains of Cambodia’s historical event andcivilization have reÀected through many different forms oftangible and intangible cultural heritage such as vernacular andarchitectural monument, archaeological and pre-historical site,
art craft, traditional song, music and dances, custom, traditional
life ways, and ritual practices. So, both tangible and intangible
cultural heritage have registered by UNESCO in the list of
Tangible and Intangible Heritage of Humanities.
A part from a considerable legacy in Pre-Angkor and Angkor
period, Cambodian cities present a highlighted Urban Heritage
with a wide variety of history, architectural styles, and theirevolution. The cities of secondary cities bene¿t from public andprivate investment in a planned framework during the preprotectorate, protectorate and the Independent’s period such as
wooden traditional houses, the religious building called wats, theremarkable colonial architectural like shop houses, colonial
villas, publics amenities and facilities, and the modern Khmer
architecture in 1960.

Battambang one of this three secondary cities located in thewestern region of Cambodia near Thai border. This province has

The city has been developing since the end of the 18th century.
In the 19th century, the city had 2,500 inhabitants living from¿shing, commerce and agriculture. The Chinese community was
already present and the existing Chinese pagodas on the riverbear witness to this presence. The governor’s residence was built
during this period. During the French protectorate (1907-1953)
the urban layout was extended with the construction of shop
houses governed by strict design rules, villas, market, a railway
station and a ¿rst concrete bridge (1917). The Independent
period (1953-1970) extended the previous urban perimeters
5-fold and develop trading and industry, making Battambang thesecond city in Cambodia. The legacy of this intense modernizationis still signi¿cant with building like the University, large
amenities (hospital, museum…) and industrial building. This
dynamic stop by civil war, was renewed at the beginning of theyear 2000, with the support of German co-operation to prepare
land registration and urban planning.
The largest Urban Heritage in Battambang includes several
remarkable elements as market, colonial houses, a Chinese
pagoda, Governor’s house, National Bank, several wats,
cinemas, schools, public administration and hotels or restaurants,
about 800 Chinese shop houses, the railway station and extensive
public spaces along the river, the museums, old bridge, 31
pagodas, and around 190 traditional wooden houses in 2 villages.
The inventory is not yet complete.
Urban heritage is actually facing several challenges:- Rapid development and dynamic investment due to economic
boom and modernization backlog.
- Speculative private land market with irrational price inÀation- Poor urban management and weak law enforcement.
Then regarding to the ¿eld of urban conservation, many
challenges in this skill are lacking in particular the lack ofInternational Workshop

The project “Sustainable development of Cambodian cities:
Implementation of inclusive urban projects for 3 secondary
cities” involved Cambodians counterparts – Ministry of
Economy and Finance, Ministry of Public Works and Transport,
Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts with thesupport of UNESCO expertise. Three cities have been selected,
Battambang, Kampot and Kratié and base on their historicalcontext and unique heritage. This legacy of the past results in ahistoric building stock largely shapes during the last century
which could be protected, enhanced and promoted frominhabitants and the touristic point of view in order to build thefuture. The project has a general vision by respecting the national
orientations of the Royal government of Cambodia in particular
to implement sustainable development projects in secondary
cities for promoting social, including gender approach, andeconomic inclusiveness and taking into account the best
advantages of the natural and urban heritage for the bene¿ts ofcommunities. And also diversify the economic activities ofsecondary cities, notably by strengthening the touristic assets ofcity centres. Other speci¿c objectives are to de¿ne a coherent
urban project to drive the sustainable development of city
centres, to upgrade utilities and public services for the bene¿t of
the population, to reduce urban sprawl, and to support job
creation for a local community.

a high potential in many sectors such as agriculture, the ¿rst riceproduction in a country, agro-industry, transportation system
connects both national and international markets made theprovince a business hub. City centre are characterized by mix
use main market, surrounded by shop-houses, public
administrations, housing, and some ancient monasteries call in
Khmer “wats”. Urban Heritage in this city centre is an asset, as
yet unharnessed, for the diversi¿cation of economic activity, thefostering of investment, de development of more inclusive urban
policy, the enhancement of living conditions and education of
population and users.

131

knowledge and awareness about heritage values in civil society,lack in human resources, lack of inventory, law, regulation for
heritage conservation, lack of funds for renovation…etc. The
city centre affects some threads by several change of building
appearance through advertisements and billboard façade
wrapping, lack of maintenance or usage, inappropriate new
construction on empty plots disrespecting the urban context,
demolition of old building for new in¿ll building, etc.
A pilot project established since 2001 by the Administration
institution in the province, urban planning of¿ce, the municipality
collaborated with the deed “German team”, and Asia Urbs
reformed some focal point: administrative structure, transparency
and public participation, district budgeting and ¿nances, tourism
development. This pilot project aims to establish professional
urban planning on local level, develop and test participatory
planning methods, develop sustainable capacity of staff anddevelop contents of and technical de¿nitions for urban masterplanning.

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132

In addition, and following the sustainable development of
Cambodian cities project, The Heritage Centre of Ministry ofculture and ¿ne Arts and UNESCO team in Phnom Penh are
working on:- Research of the documentation- Identi¿cation of heritage building. It is not only in the city
centre but also in old villages such as the temples, monasteries,
traditional architecture.
- And try to elaborate a protecting zone
For awareness education and communication, Ministry of
Culture and ¿ne art, ministry of Tourism and provincial
institution concerning work together by organizing a talk/meeting with the owner of the Heritage buildings, provide
several local and international conferences and tour guide. A
workshop on Heritage protection and conservation has done 2times per year since 2016 by the Royal University of ¿ne artsand the university Toulouse in the cooperation program. Next
month the workshop will concentrate on the restauration
methodology project of the Market in city centre.

ChinaThe Management of the Historic City of Suzhou and Community Cooperation–taking Suzhou Gardens Conservation as an example–
Jiang Yeqin, Director of Administration Ofﬁce
WHITRAP Suzhou Centre

I. Overview of the Historic City Suzhou and Its Gardens
Suzhou, located in the middle and lower part of the Yangtze
River, is one of the most famous historic cities in China with ahistory of more than 2500 years. The city was built in B.C. 514,
when was the capital city of Kingdom Wu in Spring and Autumn
Period in the Chinese history. In the long history of 2500 years,
the city site and layout kept basically unchanged according to the
Pingjiang Map drew in South Song Dynasty (A.D. 1229). The
Layout of the city is like a double checkerboard, which roads andwaterways are paralleled. The streets are built by waterways andthe residences are constructed neighbouring rivers, the bridges,
water and residential part together forming a unique feature ofwater town.
Up above there is heaven; down below there are Suzhou andHangzhou. As an ideal living place, historically, Suzhou was thecentre of the politics, economy and culture that has a large
number of culture relics. There are over 500 cultural relicprotection units in Suzhou, of which 15 are national-level and 89
are provincial-level. In the vast number of cultural heritages,
Suzhou gardens are the most charming ones, regarded as therepresentatives of Suzhou. Suzhou has long been known as the“Garden City”. There’s a saying goes: Gardens in the south partof Yangtze River are the best, but the Suzhou Gardens are thebest of the best. The private gardens of Suzhou are essence of theChinese gardens, representing the top achievements of theChinese garden art. The history of Suzhou garden can be dated
back to the Kingdom Wu’s royal garden in the 6th century B.C.,
and the earliest private garden appeared in the East Jin Dynasty(the 4th century A.D.), named Pijiang Garden. Then, it developedin the Tang and the Song Dynasties (about A.D. 618-1279) andÀourished in the Ming and the Qing Dynasties (about A.D. 13681912). From the 16th century to the 18th century, Suzhou
gardens reached their peak and there were more than 200 gardens
in the city. A poem vividly described the grand scene of theperiod: Suzhou is a good place and the gardens occupied half ofthe city.

In 1950s and 1960s, under the active appeal of professionals
from universities, institutions as well as social conscious people,
the Suzhou Garden Management Division was set up and the¿rst garden restoration projects were carried out targeted at
the historical famous classical gardens such as the Lingering
garden, the Humble Administration Garden, the Master of Nets
Garden, the Lion Forest Garden etc. The implementation ofthese restoration projects accumulated experience and establisheda professional team, which was a good start of Suzhou classicalgardens preservation.
In 1982, Suzhou was listed in the ¿rst national historical andcultural city by the State Council, which promoted the overall
conservation work of the city. The local government formulated
the Suzhou City Master Plan and clearly de¿ned the guiding
ideology of city conservation: Protecting the old city of Suzhou
and actively building modern new area. The scope of protection
is one old city, two lines (the Shantang Line and the Shangtangline) and three areas (the Tiger Hill area, Hanshan Temple area,
and the West Garden and the Lingering Garden area); theconserving contents are the layout of waterways and blocks andcultural relics, and promotion of intangible heritage. The Suzhou
City Master Plan (1986) paved a good conservation foundation
for the preservation of old city of Suzhou. The old city’s texture
has got well preserved. The local government conducted ageneral survey of cultural relics, gardens and ancient buildings in
1982, a total of 122 large and small gardens and 105 courtyards
were investigated. Less than 100 gardens and courtyards wereexisted and most of them were in bad conditions. The second
restoration projects then launched. From 1980s to the early yearsof 1990s, following the principle of protection-oriented, rescue

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The Gardens are the material carriers of history and culture,reÀecting the high level of living civilization and the scienti¿cand technological level of urban construction in the ancient
Jiangnan area. The large numbers of Suzhou classical gardens
are organically integrated with ancient rivers, ancient buildings
and historical blocks into an inseparable whole. Preserving
classical gardens and protecting Suzhou ancient city arecomplementary. Suzhou ancient city cannot be without classicalgardens. Classical gardens cannot be without the ancient city
environment.

II. Suzhou garden Conservation History
Preserving Suzhou gardens is protection of the city’s history andculture. The preservation of Suzhou gardens is earlier than thatof the old city of Suzhou. Suzhou gardens were so famous in thehistory that they attracted the attention of many experts andscholars. As early as 1937, the famous architect Tong Jun
conducted a scienti¿c investigation on Jiangnan classical gardens
including Suzhou gardens and wrote a book "Jiangnan Garden
Records". In 1953-1959, the famous Architect Liu Dunzhen,
systematically investigated Suzhou classical gardens andpublished "Suzhou Classical Gardens". From 1957 to 1958,
Chen Congzhou of Tongji University also conducted surveys,
surveying and mapping of traditional Suzhou houses, andpublished the "Record of Old Residences in Suzhou". All ofthese works compiled valuable information for the basic
conditions of Suzhou classical gardens and traditional houses.

133¿rst and repair the old as it is, over 20 gardens were restored, laida solid foundation for the group conservation of Suzhou classicalgardens.
Laws and regulations are the safeguard of the conservation ofhistoric city. Since 1990s, a series of local regulations onprotecting cultural relics and the ancient city were issued,
establishing a special regulatory system for the protection of
Suzhou ancient city. Regulations on urban planning protected
the city history environment and measures on cultural relics
provided legal basis for conserving all those movable andunmovable old things such as gardens, rivers, ancient buildings,
ancient trees etc...

Year
1995
1996
2001
2002
2003
2003
2003
2004

2005
2005

2009
2013

Name of Regulations
Suzhou City Planning Regulations
Suzhou Garden Protection and Management
Regulations
Regulations on the Protection of Ancient andFamous Trees in Suzhou
Regulations on Suzhou Ancient Building
Protection
Measures for the Protection of Famous
Historical and Cultural Cities in Suzhou
Suzhou City Purple Line Management
Measures
Implementation Rules for the Repair andProtection of Ancient Buildings in Suzhou
Measures for the Protection and Renovation ofFire Protection in Suzhou Historical andCultural Protection Area
Suzhou River Regulations
Suzhou Cultural Relics Protection Unit andControl and Protection
Building Integrity Measurement and Evaluation
Method (Trial)
Suzhou Scenic Area Regulations
Regulations on Certain Compulsory Contentsof Suzhou Urban and Rural Planning

TABLE 1. Main regulations on management and preservation of
Suzhou City

1952

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1981

2001

Suzhou Garden
Management Division

Suzhou Garden
Administration Bureau

Suzhou Garden and Landscaping
Administration Bureau

TABLE 2. Suzhou Garden Management Agency Evolution

The city master plan, regulatory system and the special law for
Gardens together helped the well conservation of Suzhou
gardens. Under the overall framework of comprehensive
protection of the ancient city, the historical famous and the
middle to large sized Suzhou gardens were well protected. In
1997 and 2000, the 9 Suzhou Classical Gardens including the
Humble Administrative Garden, the Lingering Garden, theMaster-of-Nets Garden, the Mountain Villa with Embracing
Beauty, the Lion Forest Garden, the Canglang Pavilion, theCouple Gardens Retreat, the Garden of Cultivation and theReÀection and Retreat Garden as typical examples of Suzhou
classical gardens were inscribed on the world heritage list. Since
then, Conservation of Suzhou gardens has gained more and more
attention from the government and the society. Entering the 21st
century, guided by the 9 world heritage gardens, the protection
and management of Suzhou Gardens are under the requirementsof world heritage conservation. The latest preservation theories
and the dynamic monitoring system were applied in the garden
conservation.
III. Suzhou Garden Group Conservation Project “Paradiselike Suzhou City of Gardens”
Though the Suzhou garden conservation work never stopped
since 1950s, the census data in recent years showed that theoverall number of the city gardens is decreasing year by year. To
inherit traditional culture and promote the sustainable
development of the historic city of Suzhou, in 2013, the local
government proposed the program of “Paradise-like Suzhou
City of Gardens”, aiming to promote the garden conservationand inheritance by the government and the social force.
The government plans to include gardens that meet thecharacteristics of Suzhou classical garden or have high historical,
cultural and artistic value in the “Suzhou Garden List” throughthe continuous compilation and publication of the "Suzhou
Garden List". After that following the principle of "authenticity,
integrity, continuity" and the method of “repairing the old as itis”, carry forward the restoration projects to promote theprotection and restoration of the typical classical gardens year by
year, and realize the comprehensive conservation of Suzhou
classical gardens.
The project adopts self-declaration system, and the gardens
scattered in the private and public sectors are declared bythemselves, and after being evaluated by experts, they are listed
in the “Suzhou Garden List”. The gardens inscribed on the "List"
will be awarded the protection labels and be put in the "Suzhou
Garden Supervision Information Platform". Professional
guidance will be offered to the owners so that to regulate
protection management. At the same time, according to thestatus of garden protection, these gardens are guided to
implement the public opening in different forms, so as to achieve
the purpose of Suzhou classical garden protection andinheritance. At present, 108 gardens have been included in the"List", including classical gardens and contemporary gardens in
Suzhou.

IV. Community Cooperation and engagement in theManagement of Project “Paradise-like Suzhou City of
Gardens”
Garden is the soul of Suzhou and it is an ideal home of Suzhou
people. Local people have a passion for gardens. To meet
people’s needs for garden visiting, in 1980s and 1990s, the local
Suzhou residents have chances to visit gardens for free of charge
every month by offering tickets through communities. Since
2000, the local people can visit gardens by buying Suzhou
garden card, a welfare card offered by the local government.
Therefore, the “paradise-like Suzhou City of Gardens” is trying
to build a cooperation platform between people and thegovernment.
i. Self-Declaration of "Suzhou Garden List"
Released by mass media, the Suzhou Garden Management
Department encourages the society to participate in the protection
project. The “Suzhou Garden List” application forms are
distributed to relevant units and communities. The reporting
work is carried out under the joint organization of the community
and the government. Since the implementation of the project, it
has received a good social response. The property rights
managers and private garden owners of historical gardens
actively participate in the declaration and are willing to
implement professional protection through government
protection projects. From 2014 to 2018, over 250 application
forms were received from relevant units and private owners.
ii. Participation of the "Suzhou Garden List" Publish Meeting
In the course of project promotion, after been ¿eld studied andexpert reviewed, a publish meeting will be held for gardens to be
inscribed on the List. The owners of private gardens and therepresentatives of the property managed by units will be invited
to participate in the announcing meeting. They are awarded thecerti¿cates and make speeches facing the media. Also, they areencouraged to propose management suggestions. The 108
Suzhou Classical Gardens included in the Suzhou Garden List
were announced by the local government by 4 batches from 2015
to 2018. All the gardens were attended by representatives andparticipated in the enthusiasm.

v. Cooperation with the Protective Use of Gardens
Among the 108 gardens, in addition to 15 gardens managed by
the Suzhou Garden Management Department, other gardens aremainly distributed in schools, hospitals, libraries and otherprivate individuals. In order to have the public to appreciatethese gardens, encourage quali¿ed gardens to implement various
forms of openness. With the encouragement of the government,
the social forces actively cooperated and the current open rate
reached 70%. For example, Chaiyuan Garden is used as an
educational museum for free to the public, and Changyuan
Garden, Daoqin Xiaozhu Garden are free to open by application
via garden information platform.
vi. Special Columns in Local Newspapers
In the Suzhou Daily, the Suzhou Evening, all year around havespecial columns for Suzhou gardens. The public are encouraged
to send articles, telling the story related to the history, culture
and protection of Suzhou gardens and collecting the old picturesof the gardens. It’s a good channel to have people understandgardens, love gardens, volunteer to maintain and participate ingarden protection. Because of the active participation of thesociety, the "Old Landscapes of Suzhou Gardens" and the"Record of the Past Garden" were published books, which
provide valuable materials for the cultural study of Suzhou
gardens.
vii. Holding Various Forms of Cultural Activities in the Gardens
In order to enhance the public understanding of Suzhou gardens,
cultural experiencing activities such as Àower arrangement,
painting, calligraphy, embroidery, Pingtan, Kunqu performances,book festivals, and traditional Chinese weddings are held incooperation with communities, schools and families. At thesame time, encourage social capital to participate in the activation
and utilization of garden resources, promote the integration of“culture + tourism”, making the garden culture readable, visible
and sensible. These cultural activities are soft driving force forthe promotion of Suzhou gardens management.
V. The Challenges facing the Project “Paradise-like Suzhou
City of Gardens”
The Project “Paradise-like Suzhou City of Gardens” is thecontinue of the group protection of Suzhou gardens, which is an
important part of the ancient city protection of Suzhou. At
present, we have over 100 classical gardens included in theSuzhou Garden List. Next, more gardens will join in the List andInternational Workshop

iii. Participation of the "Suzhou Garden List" Protection Training
In view of most of the gardens included in the List are out of the
management of professional preservation, technical training isnecessary. From 2015 to 2018, the property owners of the“Suzhou Garden List” units were asked to participate in thegarden protection management training course. The contents oftraining course include basic theory to protection practice,
relevant garden protection regulations explanation, gardening art
and craftsmanship. Cultural heritage conservation experts areinvited to the training course to strengthen the theoretical andpractical guidance of protection. The training courses arewelcomed by the garden owners. The attendance of the courses
is high as they can communicate with the expert’s face to face,helping them to improve the management of gardens.

iv. Cooperation from Suzhou Garden Protection Volunteers
Suzhou gardens are rooted in the hearts of the local Suzhou
people. They are the pursuit of their ideal home. In Suzhou, there
are many garden lovers. For this reason, in cooperation with theSuzhou Volunteers Association, the Suzhou garden volunteer
protection team is set up to assist in the protection andmanagement of Suzhou gardens. So far 70 volunteers withcerti¿cate work for garden conservation. They work as garden
guides, play a role in garden inspection, monitoring, brochures
dispatching and garden publicity.

135the number will grow. Comparing to the past conservation, themanagement of these gardens are more challenging.
Firstly, the effective management is facing dif¿culties. Thesegardens are scattered around the city, owned by different sectors
and persons, though we have policies in coordinating thesegardens, it’s still not easy for managing all these gardens well by
the Suzhou garden management departments. A monitoring
system is going to set up to help supervise the protection status,
however, monitoring work needs cooperation from the all sectors
and persons, so more incentive policies are needed to activate thesocial power for the cooperation in managing of these gardens.
Also, more implementing regulations on community participationin the cultural heritage need to be issued so as to help thecommunity to participate in the protection easily.
Secondly, the building of the garden city needs participation ofyoung people. The construction of new cities around the ancient
city has developed rapidly and now we have industrial park,
high-tech zone and two other new developing districts. On the
one hand, it provides space for the relief of the ancient city andInternational Workshop
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on the other hand it challenging the old city’s sustainable
development. Due to the need of conservation, the infrastructureof the old city is comparatively lower and the job opportunities
are less. Nowadays more and more young residents with higher
incomes in the ancient city migrated to the new cities. As analive organism, the old city needs to maintain the vitality. The
old city is the big history environment of the classical gardens,
now measures to shorten the gap between the old city and the
new cities in terms of incomes and living facilities are in serious
need.
The management of the big number of Suzhou Gardens is a longterm city strategy. Through this protection project, it is expectedthat the Suzhou garden group protection management model of“government-led, social participation, and people bene¿t” will
be gradually formed, and a series of effective measures such aspolicy support, ¿nancial subsidies, public opinion guidance, andservice promotion will be implemented to make Suzhou gardens
more scienti¿c and sustainable, exploring an effective model ofhistorical garden management.

Fiji
Navala, Ba Highlands, Fiji
Setoki TUITECI, Architect/ Project Manager
Architecture and Project Management, Research, Heritage and Traditional Architecture,
Ethos Edge Design Studio

Brief History and Overview
Over recent years Navala village has become the focus of visitations
from researchers, students, tourists as well local visitors. This was
attributed to the uniqueness of the village of Navala in that it was avillage that preserved and practiced their traditional building
techniques. Their houses are the traditional centre poled houses
which were common in the central highlands of Viti Levu.
Navala’s uniqueness is in the traditional layout as well thearchitecture and construction of the buildings. The concept of the
Fijian traditional house in Navala demonstrates the connectionof the people to the land in the resources that were grown andharvested from the forests that surround the village. The
relationship of the human body in its connection to the earth
through the organic materials used and the earthen Àoor that they
sleep on every day. This is further articulated in the communal
act of working together in the collection harvesting andconstruction which in turn strengthens their community life.
The unique layout of the village with the village green (open space)forming a cross with the ¿rst Chief’s house located on the lowest
part of the village. This demonstrated the vision of the original chief
to be at the lower end of the village and have his people on higher
grounds, thus elevating his people’s needs above his own. In
addition to this the church and school were placed at the head of thecross like formation again demonstrating the elevation of faith andeducation to be the focus of the people of Navala.
The construction of the houses was a community effort and everyone
participates in the activities. With teams of 7-10 men for a house
lead by a senior builder. The structural timber for the construction
are harvested from areas around the village as well as the bamboo
and the reed thatching that is used to thatching the roof of the houses.
The joints are tied together with vines from the forest and thecompacted earthen Àoor is lined with grass before the mats go on
top. The raised platform and foundations are lined with river and

The Initial settlement of the village of Navala in the early 1950s
saw the agreement of the people of Navala to build only
traditional houses within the village boundary to maintain the
tradition look and preserve their traditional construction
techniques and systems and materials. Over the last few years
this has changed and more modern houses are being built within
the village boundary now as the village has progressed and the
younger generation have opted for the more modern materials ofconcrete and corrugation iron roo¿ng.
Ongoing Activities in Navala Village
Currently, Navala hosts and entertains frequent visits fromtourists, students, as well as researchers from different parts of
the world and local visitors who visit the village to experience
the atmosphere and nostalgia of being in one of the traditional
houses. Various activities are:･ Tourist tours and accommodation･ Cultural mapping exercises and ongoing visits from the iTaukei
or Indigenous Affairs Ministry･ Local and foreign academics and researchers･ Local and foreign tertiary students･ Workshops and training programs by non-governmentalorganisations and government departments･ Infrastructure development to the village has continued –Electricity has now reached Navala village.
･ Communal facilities such as bathrooms and toilets have been
built for visitors.
These are just a few activities that have taken place in Navalavillage over the last few years.
My involvement with Navala village began in April 2016 when I
accompanied Dr Masuda of UNESCO and Mr Minowa to conduct

FIGURE 2. The layout of the village of Navala. (Google earth image
2003)

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FIGURE 1. Location of Navala village – Highlands of Ba on theisland of Viti Levu in the Fiji group.

mountain stones. All these materials are harvested and collectedfrom the areas around Navala village which demonstrates that thehouses really belong to the landscape of Navala. (Figure 1,2)137

damage assessments after Tropical Cyclone Winston. At the sametime, I conducted interviews with village elders on their construction
techniques and processes. In 2017 we facilitated with Mr Simi
Tuimalega of the Indigenous Affairs Ministry a joint visit withstudents of the Fiji National University and indigenous students of
the University of Canberra and University of Western Australia.
This was a cultural exchange visit between the indigenous
Australian students and the villages of Navala. (Figure 3-8)

FIGURE 3. My involvement with Navala village

FIGURE 4. Damage assessment sketch (Dr Masuda, UNESCO. 2016)

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FIGURE 5. Red coded houses – Houses that were completely destroyed and needed to be built.

FIGURE 6. Blue coded houses – Houses that were partially destroyed and needed to be built.

FIGURE 7. Black coded houses – Houses that had minor damage and require very little repair.

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FIGURE 8. Green coded houses – Houses that had no damage.

139

Over the last few years Navala has lost some of its traditional houses
as younger generations have opted for modern materials and modern
living facilities. Modern houses built of concrete, steel and corrugatediron have increased in number over the years and continue to grow innumber. According to the village elders, the younger generation have
opted to build modern houses for various reasons:･ Modern materials are easily accessed from the hardware
suppliers in town
･ Maintenance of the traditional buildings means going back into
the forest to harvest and collect building materials for repair of
the traditional･ houses.
･ Villages have to travel further now to get the traditional
materials as the native hard wood forests have not been
replanted over the years.
･ With the increase in distance to the building materials comes
the dif¿culty in harvesting and logistics.
･ There has been no assistance to the village on modern tools andtransportation to assist them in continuing their traditionalbuildings so less･ people are willing to continue with the traditional systems ofbuilding houses.
There may be other reasons that contribute to the increase ofmodern houses in the village but these seem to be the ones thatstand out in talking to village elders. This increase is quite evident
when one observes the aerial images over the years on Google
earth. As the traditional houses deteriorate or suffer damages from
cyclones or hurricanes it seems that the repair effort is not as robust
and widespread as they may have been previously handled. The
next lot of images shows the increase of corrugated iron roo¿ng
within the village boundary in 2016. This was after Tropical
Cyclone Winston devastated many areas in Fiji including theInternational Workshop
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highlands of Ba. From the 2017 image it is evident that in addition
to the new modern houses, the houses that were completely
damaged by Tropical Cyclone Winston had not been rebuilt and thechange in the village landscape is quite visible. (Figure 9, 10, 11)
Community Cooperation and Engagement
Despite the dif¿culty faced in the maintenance of the traditional
housing construction and the damages the Navala villagers
experienced after Tropical Cyclone Winston the community continues
to engage and cooperate with visitors and the like. They continue to:･ Share their knowledge on their techniques processes and also
the issues they continue to face in their efforts to maintain the
traditional look of･ the village over the years.
･ They actively participate in the hosting of visitors that come tothe village. This is usually done communally where visitors areallocated to･ different host families if they are staying overnight or for a few days.
･ In the cultural exchange program in 2017 with the indigenous
Australian students the villagers were very accommodating
and welcoming as well･ as forthcoming in their sharing of information and engaging
with the students.
･ The villagers are eager to share as well as learn from visitorswith every group that visits Navala and the different
backgrounds they bring.
･ They participate in training and workshops that are organisedby different organisations that come to them. (Figure 12)
Projects Overview (Figure 13)
Before Tropical Cyclone Winston･ The increase in modern housing numbers increased considerablyaround 2010 onwards

FIGURE 9. Google imagery for 2004, 2009, 2011, and 2012 showing the increase in metal roves over the modern houses.

･ Before 2010 it seemed to be under some form of control･ Pre 2009 saw the village maintain their traditional architectural look･ The pre 2009 was also the period when the imagery of Navalavillage was used a lot in publications such as tourism posters
and other marketing･ prints.
After Tropical Cyclone Winston･ The villagers expressed their concern on the scarcity ofresources･ There was an increase in the extent of work required tomaintain traditional housing･ Logistical dif¿culties in harvesting due to location of resources･ The younger generation are not as spirited as their parents andthose before them when it came to the preservation of theirtraditional housing･ Minimal work has been done in terms of the repairs to the
traditional buildings after Tropical Cyclone Winston.
Conclusion:
There needs to be a concerted effort by all relevant authorities
concerned with the community in the lead to come up with amaster plan of the rebuilding of damaged houses, and an overall
preservation program for the traditional houses. There areendless possibilities for the village of Navala in the tourism andeducation sector if their village is preserved and maintained.
References:･ Matsuda 2016, Damage assessment Data･ Google Earth Imagery･ Ministry of iTaukei Affairs information･ Fiji Museum information

FIGURE 10. Google imagery for 2014, 2015, and September to October 2016 showing the increase in metal roves over the modern houses.

FIGURE 12. Students and Village elders in discussions inside a
traditional house in Navala Village.

FIGURE 13. Maintenance works in Navala village.

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FIGURE 11. Google imagery for 2017 showing the increase inmetal roves over the modern houses.

141

Lao PDR
Case Study Report –Lao PDR–
Sisavath Nhilatchay, Head
Culture Division, Department of Information Culture and Tourism Luang prabang Province

Lao People’s Democratic Republic is located in Southeast Asia
shares its borders with China on the North, Vietnam on the East,
Cambodia on the South, Thailand and Myanmar on the West.
Lao has an area of 238.800 square kilometers, population of
7.012.995 inhabitants, and consists of 49 ethnic minorities wholive together in peace.
Luang Prabang Province is one of 18 provinces in Lao PDR,
situated in the North from Vientiane Capital about 400 kilometers
to the South. The land area is 16.097 square kilometers, consisting
primarily of mountainous and forests covering 85% of the total
area. There are 11 districts and 1 city, 431.900 inhabitants and 13
ethnic minorities. Luang Prabang City was established anddeveloped for more than 1.200 years. Luang Prabang has a wealthof ancient objects, famous of Buddhist locations housing many ¿nearts, highly skilled handicraft, highly creative studious maintain
ancestral heritage preserving Lao traditions for the next generations.
As we have known, Luang Prabang City was established as
World Heritage City as of December 9, 1995. This status isbecause of many unique characteristics of Lao Culture: lush
mountain forests, numerous streams, rivers and uniquebiodiversity. The unique location and layout of the town ofLuang Prabang makes it suitable to the preservation of traditional
culture. Examples of the many festivals held in Luang Prabang
are: Lao New Year, boat racing festival, Buddhist lent day,traditional ethnic festival, arms giving and others festivals.
Additionally, there is the ascetically beautiful Lao monastery,historic houses and buildings that are preserved within the city.

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For the intention of protecting and preserve the precious heritage
Luang Prabang was established as a World Heritage site. The
governing authority of Luang Prabang Province concerns for thedifferent sectors of Luang Prabang town created regulations andlaws to administer such as: regulation and protection of town
structures, protection natural resources and ethnic culture, laws
regulating town architecture and national heritage. Our government
released an agreement of national and local heritage committee,
committee of management building and repairing and sharing
function to the concern sectors. We have an outreach program forthe community to disseminate the regulations of historicallyvaluable areas of the heritage 30 villages. There is a program tobroadcast by national and local radio and television. Information isavailable to assist villagers about how to request a permit for the
maintenance and building their houses maintaining continuity. A
program has been established to assist in maintaining the adherence
to the perimeters established regarding architecture construction.

In recent years, for the implementation of protection of Luang
Prabang heritage, we have received the support from internationalorganizations for several projects such as: Project of Luang
Prabang allocation, Project of preserved zone allocation, Projectof heritage media database, Project of Xiang Thong and Visoun
Temples Preservation which were built in 16th century, these
supported by US Ambassador Fund for Culture Preservation
655,000 US$. In the near future, we will receive a grant fromInternational Centre for Cultural Studies, India to restore muralat Siphoutthabath temple and many projects have already done.
The management and preservation of Luang Prabang heritage isgoverned by a provincial strategy that aims to build Luang
Prabang as a tourism center for culture, architecture, nature, andservice center gateway to other provinces, assisting health andeducation in the Northern part of Lao. This assists Luang Prabangdevelopment and creating consistency. People understand andare aware of government policy, laws, and the regulation ofheritage protection perimeters.
It is of great importance to involve citizens in the protection of
traditional culture. This is done by the promotion of tourism,
which makes Luang Prabang famous and has made it possible
for the community to receive golden awards for several years
running. Luang Prabang has been noted for tourism in the top ten
by wanderlust magazine from Britain. This encourages many
tourists to visit every year. In 2017, there are 655,412 Tourists tovisit Luang Prabang. Additionally, we also promote thedevelopment of tourist sites and services. Tourism is a very
important to the economic security of the community and allows
for the preservation and restoration of historical monuments andimproves the lives of the local residents.
Even though we have been successful in management the heritage,
problems still exists which need to be addressed: controlling littler,orderliness, establishing community environmental features:tables and chairs, sell things not in order, not follow the traf¿cregulations, House extend, repair and build have been done out ofregulations, do what they want and not keep Lao traditional housestyle, which make problems to the of¿cial staff and the committeeof administration to do their duties. There are some tourists notcare about Lao culture. Maybe because of not understand such as:
wearing too short cloths in public, which is not so good for the
teenagers, it results not good for basic life living for people of Lao.
To solve these problems, we need to work hard on educating
about government policy, laws, regulation of heritage protection
and other regulations to make people know and clearly

understand, that they will be strongly involved in and strictly
perform including allocation orderliness and cleanings to follow
the regulations step by step.

more than 500 years. The temple is known for its Stupa of the Great
Lotus, or more popularly called “Watermelon Stupa” which is said
to have been designed by the king’s wife.

Attention to educate people in all levels such as: ethnic minorities,
monks, novices, students and teenagers to understand Lao
traditional culture the value of heritage that our ancestors made,together protection and continued keep forever. To propagandize
the regulations for Lao and foreigners’ investors to follow
regulation of town structure and relate to preservation and keep
the value of natural view around the city, protection ofenvironment and beautiful nature preservation. The aim is that tomanage the value of heritage forever, together with tourism tomake local strong and build richness and happy for the ethnic
minority people, becoming the signi¿cant pole for thegovernment policy and reach the goal leading the country out ofunder developed country in the near future.

“The United States and the American people recognize and value
the contributions of Lao culture to the world,” said Ambassador
Bitter. “This programme has served as a symbol of friendshipbetween the United States and the Government and people of the
Lao PDR for over a decade. “Since 2001, the U.S. government has
dedicated more than US$1 million dollars to preserving cultural
heritage in the Lao PDR using the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural
Preservation. Funding has supported 19 projects total, ranging fromrestoration of sacred temples, to preservation of archaeologicalsites and artefacts, to documentation of cultural traditions andmuseum conservation. The largest project to date was therestoration of Wat Xieng Thong in Luang Prabang, conducted overthree years with more than US$ 650,000 in assistance. “A country’s
cultural heritage is both precious and irreplaceable,” said
Ambassador Bitter. “We want to honour Laos’ rich cultural
heritage, by helping this spectacular temple endure for another 500
years.” In 2017, the fund is supporting the Traditional Arts andEthnology Centre in Luang Prabang to preserve for posterity the
traditional music of Laos’ many ethnic groups.

On this occasion, I would like to thank the director of Cultural
Heritage Protection Cooperation Of¿ce, Asia-Paci¿c Cultural
Centre for UNESCO (ACCU Nara) for giving me as a representativeof The Department of Information Culture and Tourism and of theLao people, this opportunity to attend this workshop.
On behalf of the Department of Culture of Luang Prabang andthe people of Lao, I extend my Heart felt best wishes in all areasof your lives.

RESTORATION PROJECT
Newly Completed Restoration Projects
U.S. Ambassador Commemorates Completion of Wat Visoun(Wat Wisunalat) Restoration
2015-2017 (Phase I & Phase II)

Current Restoration Project
Restoration of That Pathum Makmo Stupa
Singhalese style That Makmo stupa
That Pathum (Makmo Stupa) is a key feature of the Wat Visoun(Wat Wisunalat) Restoration complex located in the World
Heritage site of Luang Prabang, Lao PDR.
The That Pathum, or Stupa of the Great Lotus was built in theearly 16th century. The 35-meter-high stupa is in Singhalese style,the only one of its kind in Laos. The stupa is also known as That
Makmo, which translates to “watermelon stupa”, because of thedome at the top that resembles a watermelon. The stupa sits on topof a square platform. On each of its four corners is a lotus pedestal.
The That Pathum stupa was largely destroyed during the Black
Flag Army invasion of 1887. At that time, it contained a large
number of ancient Buddha images. Many were stolen or
destroyed by the Chinese invaders. Some of the remaining
images are now kept in the Royal Palace Museum, others arehoused in the temple’s sim.

U.S. Ambassador Rena Bitter (fourth from left) at the ceremony
to mark the completion of the restoration of Wat Visoun in Luang
Prabang province on October 21, 2017

Previously Completed Historical Restoration Projects
2011: Restoration of Wat Xieng Thong (Phase I)
Located at the conÀuence of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers
in the city of Luang Prabang, Wat Xieng Thong is one of theInternational Workshop(KPL) U.S. Ambassador to the Lao PDR Rena Bitter commemorated
the completion of the restoration of Wat Visoun in Luang Prabang
during a trip to the region. The historic temple was restored with
U.S. government funding of US$ 257,000 under the Ambassador’sFund for Cultural Preservation. Built in the 16th century during thereign of King Wisunarat, Wat Visoun is the oldest temple in Luang
Prabang and has been a centre of Buddhist study and worship for

When the stupa was hit by lightning and collapsed in 1914, a
number of golds, bronze, crystal and wooden Buddha images
from the 15th and 16th centuries were discovered, which are now
on display in the National Museum. The stupa was rebuilt in
1932.Restoration work is in progress at the time of thisdocument and is estimated to be completed by April, 2019.

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most important and best-known temples in Laos. It was built in1560 and has served as the traditional coronation site for Laokings, as well as the centre of numerous annual festivals
honouring the Buddha and various folk spirits. This project
enabled the Luang Prabang Department of World Heritage torestore the roof and renovate the temple’s many traditional
murals and other decorative features. Award: $115,450.
2012: Restoration of Wat Xieng Thong (Phase II)This award supported the continuation of work begun under aprevious Ambassadors Fund grant to restore the 16th-century Wat
Xieng Thong monastery in the World Heritage city of Luang
Prabang. The coronation temple of generations of Lao kings fromthe mid-16th century until the dissolution of the monarchy in the
1970s, Wat Xieng Thong required immediate conservation
attention to reverse the destructive effects of decades of neglect andincreased visitation and use. The project involved the conservationof architectural surfaces of the main temple and the preservation of
supporting structures within the complex. Award: $205,000.

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2013: Restoration of Wat Xieng Thong (Phase III)In this ¿nal phase of the Wat Xieng Thong project, the World
Heritage Of¿ce in Luang Prabang will restore the remainder ofthe buildings on the complex, including three ornate chapels,several stupas, monks’ quarters, the drum house, and the funerary
carriage house. Built in 1962, the carriage house contains therelics of King Sisavang Vong and the carriage and cof¿n thatcarried his remains to a ¿eld near Wat That Luang for his
cremation. Award: $ 325,000.
2009: Preservation and Conservation of Lao National Museum
Collection, Luang Prabang (Phase I)
Housed in the former royal palace, the Luang Prabang National
Museum presents Laos’s ¿nest collection of art and culturalartefacts. This project enabled staff to undertake an inventory of
the museum’s artefacts, provided training in modern conservation
techniques, and facilitated needed building repairs and theinstallation of a security camera system to help protect thisvaluable collection. Award: $11,600.

NepalPreservation of Historical Settlement in Nepal:
Context Study of Panauti PMZ
Suresh Suras Shrestha, HeadWorld Heritage Conservation Section, Department of Archaeology

1. Introduction
Conservation of cultural heritage has a very long history; even in
Nepal we have history since 3rd century BC with inscriptional
evidence; possibly long before that period, however not available
those evidences in written form. Tradition of such conservation
work has been continuing through either the verbal instruction or
the practically involvement with the older generations. When wego through the history of conservation of cultural heritage in
Nepal, the ¿rst activity we ¿nd is the renovation of a stupa in
Gotihawa, by Emperor Ashoka during his visit in the Lumbini
region, when the stupa was collapsed. The inscription was also
put there which says that the stupa was renovated as it waspreviously in architectural design but doubled in size. It shows
the concept of conservation of cultural heritage that was basedon the practical needs in the context. There is a long gap ofevidences and materials on the development and the situations
after 3rd century BC regarding conservation of cultural heritage
however; there are enough written evidences since 5th century
AD, from when the written history of Nepal is considered as abeginning or ancient time, known as Lichchhvi period.
Lichchhavi period is known was fruitful period that the beautiful
Nepalese arts, crafts, architecture and many of the tangible andintangible culture were Àourished; which was continued andfurther developed during Malla period until 18th century AD
that was also continued in the later period with their efforts.

community that they can reÀect their knowledge and skills learnt
during the transformation as well as through experiences within
the surrounding nature.

In this way, creation and the protection of cultural heritage wasstarted since 3rd century BC in Nepalese context which have been
continued yet. But the still there is lack of evidences that mention
about the conservation of buildings used as a private building orbuildings by the ancient or medieval period people. Therefore,
this kind of modern concept has developed as we have someunique either architectural or other design, art or some morefeatures and representing a certain period or community.

Roof: two-way roofs with certain slope and of jhingati (local
kind of tile)

2. Building Architecture of Historical Settlements
Settlements were developed as a big group of people or societies
and size of the settlements depended on the size of households orcommunities. Especially during the development phases of thecivilization human beings as per their needs and requirements
within the surrounding natural environment, they developed
their own shedding, which gradually transformed into somecertain and unique designs and shapes from the historical period.
When the concept of preservation, conservation and managementof those groups of shedding or residences of people developed,
some principles were also developed that guides sometimes in awrong way however, it should be prepared as per the traditional
concept as well as to the transformed concept of that speci¿c

Doors: doors are also mostly very decorative and carved withartistic socio-cultural symbols including numerous god andgoddess on wooden element.

Building architecture mostly designed as per the naturalenvironment and geographical situation of the context. In
Nepalese context, there are several architectural designs in thehistorical settlements due to the caste and religious system anddifferent geographical situations with different natural climates
however; dominant and signi¿cant historical settlements weredeveloped by Newars in different parts of Nepal, especially in
the Kathmandu Valley. They developed a unique architecturaldesign of their dwellings with using system of their own and also
developed other systematic components of infrastructure within
the settlement. Therefore, their architectural design has been
known as Newar or Newari architecture in general.
Except this architecture, there are several architectural designs indifferent parts of Nepal, but Newar settlements are the mostancient and systematically developed as an urban settlement since
the time from when we have written and physical evidences andstill remained continue as living historical settlements. Due to thisdevelopmental reason, most of this architectural design ofhistorical settlements are found in and around Kathmandu Valley.
The speci¿c character of these buildings or architecture are:

Windows: windows mostly are carved wooden in unique design
naming as tiki jhya, biman jhya, pasuka jhya and many otherwhich actually are typical and types of windows are also
innumerable; they are different in the different context of thebuildings as well.

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Floors: Àoors are limited into three with their names andfunctions of each separately; in which the ground Àoor usuallyused as cattle sheds and some storing places, which named aschheli or matan; ¿rst Àoor used as living rooms, bed rooms andguest rooms, named chota and the third Àoor for kitchen, dining
and worship/prayer rooms, named buiga or baiga.

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3. Concept of Protection as a Group of Buildings or Monuments
Heritage as de¿ned, all kinds of structures were the creation ofancestors of present human communities, which they createdeither for their necessity during their life time or for theenjoyment to spent their leisure. Our ancestors never createdthese heritages to show us (future generation) or for preservationof their creation, skills and socio-cultural prosperity; but they all
have been continuing even today as our tradition with somesocio-cultural activities. During the development of moreadvanced civilization, this generation of human society felt topreserve this kind of ancestral identity, then the protection andmanagement of cultural heritage was came out and developed
several principles and theories in the world. The result of this is
the several national and international conventions, treaties,
recommendations,principles,
declarations,guidelines,
procedures and many more.

building on the empty land without approval from thedepartment/government. It is also provisioned that Department
should prepare and implement a proper bylaw for the buildings
within the protected monument zone, for which municipalities
must send all the drawings on its process before they approveand give permission for house construction or repair to theowner and Department of Archaeology recommends as per its
process, procedures and bylaws for the entire protectedmonument zone.

In this context, World Heritage Convention 1972 is the major
principle theory to preserve cultural heritage by the worldcommunity as the states parties should follow this convention.
There is most important another tool for this convention and thatis the baseline to implement the convention – The Operational
Guidelines for Implementation of World Heritage Convention.
This de¿nes the cultural as a group or groups of buildings, which
also indicate or cover the settlement/s of the general humanbeings in the historical periods and more.

Local Government Regulation Act, 2017 also provisioned forthe protection of ancient or historical buildings and settlements.
Now, the local government or bodies (Municipalities) can
declare any of their territory as a cultural town or cultural village
and preserve as well as manage it.

3.1 The Concept within the National Legislation
Ancient Monument Preservation Act, 1956 is the major
legislation for preservation, conservation and management of
cultural heritage in Nepal, which has a provision for thepreservation of historical buildings, which are of at least morethan hundred years with representation of art, architecture or any
other themes of certain period of history or used by thehistorically important personalities or represent historical event/s(GoN/DoA, 2065). Any house owner must get approval tointervene their house either maintenance or renovate this kind ofhouse, from the Government of Nepal/Department ofArchaeology as the department is the sole government authority
responsible for all kind of tangible cultural heritage in Nepal.

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There is also a very important provision in the act, which
provisions the declaration of the Protected Monument Zone.
According to article no. 3 of the act, Government of Nepal candeclare any of the area within its territory demarking withcertain boundary as a Protected Monument Zone as of its
cultural, historical and archaeological or other values. Within
the declared boundary, if there is any privately-owned house orhouses, the house owner must get approval from the Departmentof Archaeology to intervene their house either maintenance orrenovation and also must get approval from the department tocarry out any activities within the boundary of protectedmonument zone; i.e. develop or extension of pipelines forsewerage or drinking water etc. The provisions of act does notallow to carry out any activities either for the conservation(maintenance), renovation or reconstruction; even to constructThis is only the process and system to preserve the historicalsettlements in Nepal, but only within the protected monument
zones however, there are several provisions not only within
Ancient Protected Monument Zone, but also in several acts andregulations, which protect the historical settlements / buildings
in Nepal.

Similarly, they should coordinate and preserve or manage theheritage sites as per the rules and regulations implemented by thefederal government. Therefore, world heritage properties,
national heritage and the historical settlements as declared
should be preserved and managed with close cooperation andcoordination among federal government, local government andlocal communities including related all stakeholders.
This act focuses also on the preservation and management ofhistorical settlements, groups of monuments as well as of the
traditional and historical building/s including landscapes andcultural environment.
In this context, concept of the preservation and management ofhistorical settlement was clearly developed through the de¿nition
by Ancient Monument Preservation Act, 2013 (1956), only fromthe 4th amendment, since when Nepal rati¿ed the world heritage
convention in 1978 and the concept was derived from the same
convention however, these are protected by the concept ofProtected Monument Zone, provisioned in the act.
3.2 Concept Through International Legislation
Nepal rati¿ed the Convention Concerning Protection of World
Cultural and Natural Heritage, 1972 in 1978. It is a responsibilityof Nepal to follow all the provisions of convention and legal
tools prepared and implemented under this convention as a stateparty of it. Two of the cultural heritage of Nepal are on the world
heritage list as per the criteria of this convention.
One signi¿cant concept from the convention to preserve thecultural and historical heritage derived in Nepalese legislation
was the protection or preservation of groups of monuments forwhich government can declare the group of monuments as a

Protected Monument Zone. It is provisioned in Ancient
Monument Preservation Act, 2013 (1956) and it is nationalized
for the sake of protection of cultural heritage.
There are ten protected monument zones declared by Governmentof Nepal in different time and seven among them are consisted
into the Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Property. There areseveral such historical and cultural settlements, yet to be declared
as protected monument zone however; it could be protect without
declaring the protected monument zones; because they are
typical historical and traditional settlements that belonging to thedifferent identical socio-cultural groups.
Panauti is one among them and it was already declared as aprotected monument zone due to its unique socio-cultural values
and importance; but not nominated into the UNESCO's World
Heritage List yet.
4. Conservation and Management: World Heritage Property
and Historical Settlements
As a state party of World Heritage Convention, Nepal alreadyhas two cultural properties in the list of world heritage in 1979.
As per the system and provisions to protect the world heritage
properties, Nepal also declared the properties as the protectedmonument zones, which is the best and high-level protection of
the properties in national level. There are several historicalbuildings and settlements within Kathmandu Valley World
Heritage Property consisted seven protected monument zones.
The Ancient Monument Preservation Act, 2013 (1956) is themost powerful and major legislation for the protection andmanagement of cultural heritage in Nepal. The Ancient
Monument Preservation Rules 2046 (1990); Ancient Monument
Conservation and Renovation Procedure 2064 (2007); Bylaws
for the Conservation, Renovation and Construction of Private
Buildings within the Protected Monument Zone (which are 7 foreach separated PMZ); Integrated Management Framework for
Kathmandu Valley World Heritage Property, 2007; Integrated
Management Manuals for Site Managers of Kathmandu Valley
World Heritage Property, 2007 (7 separate manuals for eachPMZ) are the major tools for the conservation and managementof world heritage properties in Nepal, based on which all thehistorical settlements within world heritage properties have also
been protected and managed by the Government of Nepal inclose coordination with local communities; local governments
and related other authorities.

Panauti, the medieval town has still been surviving with its very
important medieval features of settlement, which was theDue to the historical and socio-cultural value of the existing
several popular temples, i.e. Indreshwor Mahadev, Bramhayani,
Bamsha Gopal, Dhananjaya Basuki, Kedarnath, Unmatta
Bhairav, Badri Nath, Gorakhnath, Maneshwori, Kathan Ganesh,
Vishweshwor Mahadev, Rana Mukteshwor Mahadev, Ram
Mandir, Mahalaxmi, Ashta Matrika, Tola Narayan, Gupteshwor
Mahadev, Ajima and Aaju Temple, Chaitya, Patis (rest houses
for travellers or pilgrims), Dhunge Dharas (stone spouts) andmany other traditional structures. Panauti is surviving with its
living tradition and it is also popularly known as a reÀection of
medieval townscape; where the people have been celebrating
almost all of their medieval festivals with their traditional feasts.
Panuti is one of the protected monument zones among ten in
Nepal and there are special rules and regulation for carrying out
any activities within its boundary either into the public land andstructure of privately owned.
As per the article 3(5), it is mandatory to take approval from
DoA before carrying out the activities related to telephone orelectricity connectivity, digging for drinking water pipelines orsewerage lines, maintenance or construction of roads,
construction of parking area, organizing festive, shooting ofmovies/¿lms or keep hoarding boards or posters within theboundary of PMZs.
Similarly, it is also mandatory that related municipalities or local
authorities must send the drawing to DoA for its recommendation
before granting permission to the privately-owned house owners;
applied for maintenance, construction or reconstruction, in
which DoA can recommend with or without any amendment or
not allowed to do anything on it.
As per article 3(6), DoA prepared and implemented an especial
bylaw for the protection of the zones and conservation, construction
and reconstruction of privately-owned houses within thismonument zone that must be followed by each house owner.
As per the Local Government Regulation Act, the local
governments or authorities especially the related municipalities
and rural municipalities are ¿nal decision makers for granting
permission regarding construction, reconstruction orconservation of houses; but still due to the provision in Ancient
Monument Preservation Act, there is a mandatory provision tofollow before granting permission in this regard. Therefore, thefollowing process and procedures are in practice for theprotection of historical settlements within Panauti Protected
Monument Zone:

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5. Case Study: Historical Settlement of Panauti (one of theProtected Monument Zone)
Panauti is one of the most typical medieval urban historic
settlement in the Kathmandu Valley, which is located about 32
kilometres southeast of Kathmandu. The main core city was
declared as a protected monument zone by the Government of
Nepal and also in the UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List.

separate kingdom before the uni¿cation of Nepal in 1763. There
are many courtyards, platforms (dabu) and elongated open
spaces (nani) within the settlement, which are historically andsocio-culturally much valuable and important as they are stillused as the open spaces for the residents.

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5.1 Application submission by the House Owner
As per the provision of act, house owner applies for thepermission for the maintenance or construction or thereconstruction of their house in Panauti Municipality of¿ce atHouse Permit Section in a municipality recommended format of
the application including existing and proposed drawings.
5.2 Cross Checking in Panauti Municipality and Send to
DoA for Recommendation
In the House Permit Section, responsible engineers and architects
check the drawings and also the location of the house either it islocated within the boundary of monument zone or not, thenrecommend to send to DoA for the further recommendation as
per the provisions in the act, if the house is located within theboundary, otherwise it processes within the rules and regulationof municipality.
5.3 Approval for Recommendation within DoA
When DoA receives such applications, as per the calendar
schedule, calls on site meeting of the Ancient Monument
Preservation Assistance Committee, which is also established as
per the provisions of act and Rules. There are separate committees
for each PMZs; which consists Archaeological Of¿cers andEngineer/Architect from DoA; related Engineers from
Municipality; head of the site of¿ce of DoA; representatives
from District Administrative Of¿ce, Area Police Of¿ce, Guthi
Corporation and other invitee members. The committee
coordinates by DoA nominated of¿cer, who must be working asa site manager of the related site.
As a coordinator of the committee, DoA responsible of¿cer;
World Heritage Conservation Section, invites or call a meetingon site, where all of the committee members visit and observe
the site and take decision as a recommendation for further
recommendation from DoA for approval process. The committee
can recommend the submitted drawing with or without any
amendment and corrections or special recommendation, as per
the bylaws prevailed for the entire site / PMZ.

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After having decision from the committee, the coordinator of thecommittee, archaeological of¿cer in the department proceeds the¿le for recommendation decision again. It is an internal processof approval, where decision would be taken as per the provisions
in bylaws and the socio-cultural context and landscape as per theAncient Monument Preservation Act as well as recommendations
by the committee, Archaeological Of¿cer and Architect.
Therefore, DoA also can recommend the drawing with or without
any amendment on the submitted drawing, however, most of thehouse owner's drawings have already had amendment in between
committee recommendation and proceed by ArchaeologicalOf¿cer and Architect.
Then, the drawing sends back to Panautin Municipality withrecommendation for further or ¿nal approval by municipality.
When municipality gets back the drawing with recommendationfrom DoA, through internal process, the house-owner ¿nallyreceives the ¿nal approval or permission from municipality andthey can start the construction work.
During the construction work, it is mandatory to supervise on
regular basis as per the norm of municipality and DoA coordinate
to the municipality for it and also supervise on site if necessary
or on request by the municipality; otherwise, municipality keep
reporting to DoA until the completion of house construction.
In this way, the historic settlement of Panauti, as a Protected
Monument Zone has been preserved jointly by local community(house-owners), local government (municipality) and theDepartment of Archaeology as per the national legislation.
6. Conclusion
Nepal is very rich in cultural and natural heritage since time
memorable; which is still continuously coming down and also it
is the responsibility of the present generation to continue it. The
concept of preservation of private houses was developed a muchlater in Nepal, even now, it's not mandatory obligation of any
institution except the house owner. There are several historic
settlements in Nepal, which are still waiting for preservation for
the next generation. As per the major national legal tool –Ancient Monument Preservation Act, only the historic
settlements within the declared protected monument zones arepreserved as per the rules and regulations implemented for theentire site. Rests of the historic settlements are not being
preserved properly however, the local governments are verystrong in current context and some of them have alreadypromulgated and implemented the rules and regulations which
are also in favour of preserving heritage and historic settlements
as well.
In present, however, it's only within the PMZ, local community
as an individual must get involve in preservation of the historic
settlement as they are the house owners, but there are not any
institutional or community-initiated activities to preserve
historical settlement in Nepal.
There is one historical settlement of Bandipur, which was
actually initiated by local people who almost all abandoned theirhouses and latterly after a long time, they revived their houses,
but none of the house owners are living but reused their houses
as the accommodation for tourists and now the village is one ofthe destination for tourist and almost all of the houses are turned
into the hotels, guesthouses, restaurants and shops.
7. Bibliography
1. Dangol, P. (2011). Elements of Nepalese Temple
Architecture. New Delhi: ADROIT Publisher
2. DoA/GoN, (2065). Ancient Monument Preservation Act,
2013 (1956). Kathmandu: DoA/GoN
3. DoA/GoN, (2065). Ancient Monument Preservation Rules,
2046 (1991). Kathmandu: DoA/GoN

4.

5.

6.

DoA/GoN, (2066). Panauti Samrakshit Smarak Kshetrama
Hune Niji Ghar Bhavanharuko Samrakshan, Nirman
tatha Puna Nirman Sambandhi Mapdanda (Bylaws forConservation, Construction and Reconstruction of Private
Buildings in Panauti Protected Monument Zone, 2009).
Kathmandu: DoA/GoN
DoA/GoN, (2061). Panauti Samrakshit Smarak Kshetraka
Smarakharuko Bivaran (Inventory of Monuments in
Panauti Protected Monument Zone). .Kathmandu: DoA/GoN
DoA/GoN. (2068). Panauti Utkhanan Prativedan (Excavation
Report of Panauti). DoA (Unpublished Report)

DoA/GoN, Brochures on Panauti. Kathmandu: DoA
Joshi, C.B. (2046). Kathmandu Upatyakaka Kalatmak
Jhyalharu. (Traditional Windows of Kathmandu Valley).
Kathmandu: Nepal Rajakiya Pragya Pratishtahan.
9. Korn, W. (1993). The Traditional Architecture of the
Kathmandu Valley. Kathmandu: Ratna Pustak Bhandar.
10. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panauti
11. https://www.google.com/search?q panauti&tbm isch&tbo
u&source univ&sa X&ved 2ahUKEwidgpyF-azeAhXH
brwKHSizAvkQsAR6BAgDEAE&biw 1366&bih 654(on 27/10/2018)7.
8.

Some Photographs in relation to the Article:

Drawing for traditional building as per Bylaws

A traditional preserved house: after renovation
Drawing of over all architecture of traditional building

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Historical settlement of Panauti (Photo: Google search)

149

Philippines
Community-centred Approaches to the Preservation of Historic TownscapeVeronica A. Dado, Deputy Executive Director for Programs and Projects
Of¿ce of the Executive Director, National Historical Commission of the Philippines

Taal town is a third-class municipality in the province of
Batangas, Philippines. It is a small town with an area of 29.76
square kilometres. In a 2018 census, Taal has a population of
39,745 people. Taal is one of the few towns in the Philippines
with a large concentration of old houses and heritage structures.
Through the years, the government has enacted laws for thepreservation of the town’s old charm and setting.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (then the
National Historical Institute) approved Resolution No. 2, s.
1987, declaring a portion of the town of Taal, Batangas a national
historical landmark for reasons among which are:
• The 200-year-old Church of Taal is considered the biggest
Catholic Church in Asia, and was declared a national historicallandmark by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 375 signed in 1974;• There are two heritage houses which have been donated to thegovernment and are now being administered by the National
Historical Institute as museums;• Taal is the hometown of prominent historical personages who
have contributed to the enrichment of Philippine cultural,political, social and historical legacy;• Taal has retained its colonial ambience composed of old houses
and churches still well-preserved after centuries of existence;• Aside from being historically signi¿cant, the town of Taal alsoreÀects architectural importance, depicting local aesthetic
values of their builders and owners;• In the promotion of Filipino culture and history, including
tourism, these existing colonial structures need to besafeguarded and preserved;• Taal, because of its uniqueness in physical, historical, and cultural
attributes, is outstanding among typical Philippine towns.

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The declaration identi¿ed the central part of the town or“población” with its boundary streets, as a protected historicalsite. The NHI likewise approved a set of Rules and Regulations
Implementing Resolution No. 2. Listed in the declaration are thevarious heritage structures that includes the Taal Basilica, theEscuela Pia (secular school) building, Taal Municipal Building,
Taal Park, Taal Central School, and many houses. Also includedin the list are the Church of Caysasay located at the lower part of
the town, its stone steps, and the nearby Santa Lucia Wells. We
identi¿ed about 106 structures in the town which were considered
an integral part of the history of Taal.
MUSEUM OF MARCELA AND FELIPE AGONCILLOThe National Historical Commission of the Philippines maintains
two ancestral houses in Taal as history museums. These are theMuseum of Marcela and Felipe Agoncillo and the Museum of Leonand Galicano Apacible. The Museum of Marcela and Felipe
Agoncillo is the ancestral house of Marcela Agoncillo, who sewed
the ¿rst Philippine Àag, which was unfurled at the proclamation ofPhilippine Independence on June 12, 1898. Marcela is married toFelipe Agoncillo, considered the country’s ¿rst diplomat. (Figure 1)
MUSEUM OF LEON AND GALICANO APACIBLE
The Museum of Leon and Galicano Apacible tells the story of
two Filipino nationalists. Brothers Leon and Galicano ¿gured
prominently also during the Philippine Revolution and Philippine
American War. The original house was built in mid-nineteenth
century and was renovated in 1870 and 1940. (Figure 2)
UPGRADING OF NHCP MUSEUMS
Before 2016, the Agoncillo and Apacible museums had simple
displays, mostly photographs and the historical background of
the houses and the heroes they enshrined.
In 2016, the NHCP renovated the two museums and opened
them to the public. Both museums now feature new displays and

FIGURE 1. Museum of Marcela and Felipe Agoncillo

FIGURE 2. Museum of Leon and Galicano Apacible

stories and have more interactive modules to spark the interest ofvisitors, and especially to the younger generation to make themmore interested in history.
In our two museums, we coordinate all our activities with thelocal groups and the local government unit (LGU), especially the
tourism of¿cer. Likewise, the LGU coordinates with the curatorsfor special visits of visitors to our museums. Public programs are
conducted in the museums with the local community in mind, be
it lectures, seminars, workshops or training modules.
BASILICA OF TAAL
Early historians record Taal primarily because of the volcano
which sits on a lake within a lake within a lake. It is still an active
volcano and its past eruptions have been well documented.

In 1754, Taal Volcano erupted with violence and destroyed thetowns of Taal, Lipa and Tanauan which were all located around
Lake Bonbon. In 1755, Taal settled on the hill slope far from thevolcano, a safer ground where the people rebuilt their community.2
In 1858, Fr. Marcos Anton started the construction of the church,
under the direction of Don Luciano Oliver. As in most churches
built by the Spaniards in the nineteenth century, Taal church wassituated in the highest portion of the town, overlooking the plaza(central square), the municipal hall, the market, the school, andthe houses of the citizens. The church was completed in 1878
and has stood majestically up to the present time.

The town of Taal was established in 1575 by a Spanish priest, Fr.
Diego de Espinar in the old site called Lumang Taal (Old Taal),
which is in another town at present.1

FIGURE 5. Taal Church, archival photo

FIGURE 3. Museo ni Marcela at Felipe Agoncillo, 2018

FIGURE 6. Taal Church, ca. 1987

The museums are open to the public Tuesdays to Sundays
without any admission fee.
―――――――――――――――――
1

Pedro G. Galende, O.S.A., Angels in Stone: Architecture of Augustinian Churches in the Philippines(Metro Manila: G.A. Formoso Publishing, 1987), p. 106.
2

Pedro G. Galende, O.S.A., Philippine Church Facades (Quezon City: Filipiniana.net, 2007), p. 180.

FIGURE 7. Taal Church, 2018

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FIGURE 4. Museo ni Leon at Galicano Apacible, 2018151

However, in April last year, an earthquake struck the province,
and Taal Church was one of the heavily damaged heritage
structures. The 5.5 magnitude earthquake struck about 9 pm.
Stone blocks at the façade fell to the ground, and the church
grounds had to be cordoned off from curious bystanders.
The NHCP sent a technical team which recommended theimmediate placement of supports and shoring of the walls. The
local community submitted a detailed engineering study which
they sponsored. The Commission is currently planning out the
program of work for the preservation of the church and the longterm maintenance of the structure and its setting.

economic bene¿ts of such efforts by turning them into small
hotels or bed and breakfast inns. Others are cafes and commercial
spaces, while some have retained their original settings andopened them up to the public as lifestyle museums.
The Goco Ancestral House was built by Juan Cabrera Goco andLorenza Deomampo in 1876. Juan Goco was a landowner known
for his modesty and trustworthiness. He served as the treasurerof the revolutionary forces in Batangas. The house was open to
the public for bed and breakfast. Because it is a well-preserved
house with period furniture, it is often the venue for shooting
movies and soap operas. The grandson, Pio Goco, holds walking

The local residents have also been vocal about their concern forthe church. For example, the protested the project of the thenparish priest to construct an adjacent building to the church. The
NHCP did not give permission to the construction because thechurch is a declared structure, and the building encroached on
the open space of the church. We deemed that during emergency
cases, the open space would be a place for people to gather insafety. Moreover, the Heritage Law allows ¿ve meters bufferfrom a heritage structure. A Taal resident ¿led a case against thepriest for this breach, and the case is still pending in court.
ESCUELA PIA
One of Taal’s heritage structures is the escuela pia or religious
school. This was a parish school for underprivileged children
during the Spanish period. According to old records, an escuela
pia existed in Taal in 1839 under the Agustinian friar curates. In
1852, a severe earthquake destroyed the big buildings in Taal,the escuela pia included. The following year, it was reconstructedwest of the church patio. While the Church of Taal was being
built, masses were held at the escuela pia.
In 1992, the Taal Heritage Commission (under the Taal Arts andCulture Foundation, Inc.) initiated the restoration of the Taalescuela pia, which was coursed to the NHCP. The Commission
undertook the restoration project and turned it over to themunicipal government. The escuela pia is now the Taal Cultural
Centre, which has become a venue for lectures, seminars,
workshops, social functions, and other activities of the local
government. It is quite popular as a venue for wedding receptions,the structure being very close to the church.
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FIGURE 8. Escuela Pia, 1987

FIGURE 9. Escuela Pia, 2018

MUNICIPAL HALL
The original municipal hall was built in 1845 and was renovatedduring the American period. The Jose Rizal Monument in frontof the building was erected in 1923. The municipal hall faces aplaza traversed by a road and the majestic church on top of thehill. (Figure 10)
OTHER STRUCTURES
Realizing the tourism potential of the town because of its highconcentration of heritage houses, the owners of the other houses
endeavoured to restore their own houses. Some looked into the

FIGURE 10. Taal Municipal Hall, 2018

tours of Taal, which starts with a buffet lunch at the house andends at sunset at the Taal Basilica. The tour package is P1,500
per head for seven persons or less, and P1,350 for 8 or more
persons. (Figure 11)
Casa Villavicencio was the original house of the couple, Eulalio
Villavicencio, a ship captain, and Gliceria Marella, who wasreferred to as the “godmother of the Revolutionary forces” forsupporting the revolution against Spain by ¿nancing the
distribution of Jose Rizal’s novels and lending their ship to ferry¿rearms. Because of Gliceria Marella’s signi¿cant role in the
Revolution, the National Historical Institute installed a marker
for her in 1985. The house is open to the public with an admission
fee of P100. (Figure 12,13)

heritage house by the NHI in 1998. This is not open to the public.
(Figure 17)
TOURISM POTENTIAL
The Philippines has relatively few towns which have been wellpreserved because most were destroyed or burned during WorldWar II. Taal is indeed quite fortunate the many houses in the
town have survived and are still in good condition.
One Philippine town which had been listed in UNESCO’s World
Heritage List is Vigan in Ilocos Sur. This town in the northernreach of the island of Luzon is approximately 10 hours awayfrom Manila. Because of its UNESCO inscription and thevigorous provincial promotion, tourists gravitate to Vigan, stayovernight and visit other tourist spots in the province.

The Villavicencio Wedding Gift House adjoins Casa Villavicenciowith a connecting bridge. This house was built in 1870 as a gift to
Eulalio and Gliceria Villavicencio’s daughter on her wedding.
The house is a lifestyle museum as well as a bed-and-breakfast
facility. Entrance fee for the museum is P80. (Figure 14,15)
This was the house of Gregorio Agoncillo, brother of Maria
Agoncillo, who became the second wife of Gen. Emilio
Aguinaldo, the ¿rst president of the Philippine Republic.
Gregorio was married to Mariquita Villavicencio, the daughterof Gliceria Marella Villavicencio and the recipient of theVillavicencio wedding gift house. The Gregorio Agoncillo
House is now a lifestyle museum open to the public. (Figure 16)
The De la Rosa-Ylagan House was originally owned by Julian
Ylagan. The house was restored in 1996 and was declared a

FIGURE 11. Goco Ancestral House, 2018

FIGURE 13. Gliceria
Marella Villavicencio Bust
Monument, 2018

FIGURE 14

FIGURE 16. Gregorio Agoncillo House, 2018

FIGURE 17. De la Rosa-Ylagan House, 2018

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FIGURE 12. Casa Villavicencio, 2018

FIGURE 15. Villavicencio Wedding Gift House, 2018

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The local government of Taal has well realized the economic
potential of tourism of the municipality and are doing their effort
to promote Taal as a destination. Realizing that many tourists
prefer a day tour coming from Manila, tour agencies have been
packaging Taal as a heritage destination. The bed and breakfast
facilities, though, entice visitors to stay a night or two andexperience the lifestyle of the well-to-do in a heritage house.
The need of regulate building construction in the town toconform with the colonial atmosphere was initiated. To
complement the draft Rules and Regulations Implementing
Resolution No. 2 of the NHI, the Sangguniang Bayan (local
government) passed Resolution No. 89 s. 2009, “a resolution
embodying Municipal Ordinance No. 3, s. 2009, approving andadopting the heritage conservation, preservation, and restoration
code of 2009 of the Municipality of Taal, Batangas. The code
was drafted by the technical working group of the Taal Active
Alliance Legion (TAAL), a group of professionals with roots in
Taal or are based in Taal. The group believed that if there is anactive community participation and if all the people in Taal
worked toward achieving their advocacy for the conservation
and restoration of the heritage structures of Taal, they canchannel their efforts towards sustainable development. An
offshoot or an objective of their efforts is tourism, which can fuellocal economy and uplift the lives of the townspeople.
The NHI considered this enactment a signi¿cant move of thelocal government to ensure the preservation and protection of thedeclared historic centre of Taal. To date, this local ordinanceguides all building construction in the town centre of Taal. The
portion covered by the code of bounded by Calle Gliceria
Marella, Calle Tomas Cabrera, and Calle Dr Hermenegildo delCastillo on the north; Calle Vicente Noble, Calle Marcela
Agoncillo, and Calle Justice Ramon Diokno on the west; Calle
Jose P. Rizal on the south; and Calle San Martil on the east.

For example, old houses which have been converted into stores
abide by the code’s signages and height requirements.
(Figure 18,19)
The tourism potential has been attributed to many other factors,
not just the extant structures. Of course, the citizens who havecontributed their legacy to the nation are endowed with historicalmarkers by the National Historical Commission. Taal, likewise
has many products which entice the visitors to buy them. The
local craftsmen of Taal are well known for making barong
embroidery of native ¿bres, pina and jusi, and forging balisong(fan knife). (Figure 20,21)
Delicacies include panutsa (peanut brittle), suman (rice cake),and tablea (chocolate balls). Taal butchers make delicious
longanisa (pork sausage) and tapa (marinated pork or beef).
Visitors will de¿nitely have something to bring home from theirvisit to Taal.
CHALLENGES
There are many challenges in managing the historic centre of Taal.
1. Overdevelopment
Since the local government initiates projects to entice tourists tocome to the town, some projects can be downright tacky for aheritage village. One such project of the Mayor is putting up
lights at the plaza right in front of the Church steps. The church
vista from this angle is totally marred. Anyone taking photographs
at this area will be dismayed by the array of lights obstructing thechurch view. To top it all, the Mayor installed a standee of
himself right beside the lights. (Figure 22,23)

FIGURE 19. 7/11 Store (new construction)

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FIGURE 18. M. Lhullier Pawnshop (adaptive
re-use of old house)

FIGURE 21. Filipiniana Barong

FIGURE 20. Balisong (Fan knife)

2. Street Infrastructure and Mobility
Most heritage towns encourage walking through the streets. Thiscan be done in Taal; unfortunately, it can only be done by ablebodied persons. Even then, able persons will still have dif¿culty
considering the following:• The sidewalks are too narrow to accommodate more than two
persons at one time.
• There are many vehicles passing through the streets thatcrossing takes time.
• There are no trees or canopies to shade the pedestrians.
• The pavements are uneven.
• There are many un¿nished portions with no warning signs or
barriers.
• Although jeepneys and buses are prohibited to pass through themain street, there are too many vehicles, especially t tricycles,
which contribute to air and noise pollution.
• Too many wires mar the view of the heritage houses.
• Too few access to persons with disabilities.
When the town was declared a national historical landmark in
1987, there was a move to make the main street off-limits tovehicles. The NHI then initiated the request because the fragile
exhibit items in our museums were in constant vibration anddanger of toppling. At most, the local government banned thebuses from plying the main street. But then, the volume ofvehicles is just too large that it hampers mobility and is quite
destructive to the exhibits in the museums.

selling these products. Two decades ago, the local ¿bres werehighlighted. Recently, however, there has been a proliferation of
products from China passing off as local ¿bres. The local government
should be aware of this situation and remedy it immediately. The
government should encourage local artisans to weave native fabrics
with indigenous designs which Taal can be proud of.
5. Stakeholders Meetings
It is important that both the private and the public sectors meet
regularly to monitor activities in the community. Regulations
and ordinances should be reviewed periodically to look into thebest solutions for problems. In the long run, Taal is still a town
lived by people with occupations to sustain their lives.
CONCLUSION
Taal has so much potential as a heritage village and a tourist
destination. There should, however, be a holistic approach totourism development, management, and monitoring. This canonly come when both the government efforts and those of thecommunity are synchronized and in harmony for the common
goal in sustaining their town as a heritage village. A former
Secretary of the Department of Tourism said, “It is of utmost
importance that every Taaleno participate in the formulation of
their cultural tourism policy and implementation of projects withstakeholders in the local, national, and global levels. Suchempowerment will ensure the increase of bene¿ts and welfare
opportunities for themselves as the host communities.”

Another annoying element in the streetscape is the presence ofoverhead electrical wires and cables. These are quite distracting
and mar the otherwise pleasant view of the heritage structures.
Access by persons with disabilities are very limited. Street levels
have changed through the years and entrances to houses havealtered making it dif¿cult for disabled persons to get inside.
Another factor hampering accessibility to museums is that these
are really residences which have been converted into museums,
so elevators have not really been factored in their conversion.

4. Products
Local products are plentiful in Taal. The issue here are the displays
for the barong cloth. These are made of pina or jusi or banana ¿bre
which are then embroidered for making the barong Tagalog for men
or the Filipina dress for women. In the market, there are many stores

FIGURE 22

FIGURE 23

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3. Diaspora
There are houses in the town which have nobody living in them
except perhaps caretakers. Their owners have passed away, andthe children moved to Metro Manila or elsewhere, or chose tolive abroad. Some houses have been bought by local people but
some were bought by people who have no roots at all in Taal, but
see the economic potential of the heritage structure as a bed-andbreakfast facility, a coffee shop or convenience store because of
the increasing number of tourists through the years. When thishappens, the history of the house, or the story of the original
owners will somehow get lost and be forgotten in the long run.

155

Sri Lanka
Current Issues and Challenges of Conservation and Management of Historic Cities(Living heritage) –Special Reference to World Heritage to Anuradhapura–
Sumedha Mathota, Director Development
Central Cultural Fund, Sri Lanka

Buddhist heritage in Sri Lanka
With the introduction of Buddhism Sri Lanka in 3rd century B.C.
Buddhism became the state religion to the end of Sinhalese rulein 19th century B.C. The ancient literature in Ceylon provides
ample information to prove that. The ancient chronicle
Mahawansa describes how it became the state religion. It
mentions that the king Devanapiyatissa requested Mahainda thegreat thera, to establish the city boundaries so as to live the kingwith Buddha’s command “…I will abide under the Buddha’scommand…”.1 Only a Buddhist had legitimate right to be a kingof the country. Therefore, Buddhism was spread in the country
and the country became the Buddha’s country.

wrong- believers in this island will never be permanent, just as
the residence of the Yakasas of old was not permanent. Even if a
non-Buddhist ruled Ceylon by for a while, it is a particular powerof Buddha that his line will not be established.2 Therefore, as
Lanka is suitable only for Buddhist kings, it is certain that theirlines, too will be established.” After the arrival of Arahat
Mahinda, the second holy incident was the arrival Great nun
Sangamitta with the great Bodhi tree and the festival of Bodhi
tree became one of the important Buddhist ritual in the country.
Great chronicle explained the plantation of the great Bodhi tree
in Sri Lanka with the patronage of the king., So that the kingshould not give up the Buddhism and embrace another religion.

The Pujawaliya written in 13rd century B.C. cited this idea inprecise way. “The Island of Lanka belongs to Buddha himself; itis like a treasury ¿lled with three gems. Therefore, residence ofGrowth of rituals
As a result of rituals and worship we were inherited to a rich
physical heritage which is known as Buddhist heritage. Fa Hien
recorded in his reports on Travels of Buddhist Pilgrims about therituals held in Anuradhapura. He precisely described existenceof an organized ceremony held annually to honour the relics. It
provides much information about the rituals account shows how
the rituals had become as a part of the religion at the end of the
fourth century A.D.
There is a great belief among Buddhist that the existence of therelic of Buddha equivalent to the existence of the Buddha himself
and worship of the relic and Buddha’s memorials is equivalent to
the worship of Buddha. Buddhism was nourished and developedin the country with the patronage of Bhikkhus and the kings aswell. In this way religion entered into the everyday life of thepeople of Ceylon and it resulted the change in economic pattern,social life, life style, culture, rituals, built environment, art etc. It
is worthy to mention that the growth of art and architecture in the
country was happened simultaneously with the development of
Buddhism. Therefore, the beliefs, forms of worship had agradual growth in Ceylon. With growth of Buddhist rituals andthe construction of religious buildings leads Sri Lanka to a
country enriched with a huge Buddhist heritage. As a sum of all
Sri Lanka has a rich Buddhist heritage.

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FIGURE 1. Great nun Sangamitta with the great Bodhi tree
(Wall painting at Kelani Vihara)―――――――――――――――――
1
Mahavamsa. Xv182-183
2

Pujawaliya. P. 656

Buddhist perspectives and practices on conservation andmanagement of heritage in Sri Lanka
Buddhist Heritage in Sri Lanka is continued as a result ofcontinues care of the society who is devoted for it. It resulted thecontinuity of Buddhist heritage throughout a history of morethan 2000 years. Since the time of the birth and the enlightenmentof the Lord Buddha in sixth century BC, his teachings and theorder (dhamma and sangha) and also the associated heritage
have continued to live until the present. Buddha’s teachings,
Buddhist literature provides numerous guidelines for theplanning and conservation of Buddhist monastic architecture.
The numerous inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century BC,
chronicles like Mahavamsa written in 5th century AD and
Chulawamsa, are good sources of information to study theinspiration of monastic architecture and its restorations in Sri
Lanka. (Figure 2)
Buddhist Philosophy as the base for all, has formed and shaped
concept conservation from its beginning. Buddhist literature
itself which contain teachings of Buddha provides numerous
guidelines for the planning and conservation of Buddhist
monastic architecture. Buddha’s teachings on Monasteries is
described in Vinaya, the code of disciplines which were made formonks. It Provides guidelines on Constructing Monastic
Buildings. It describes that dilapidated buildings are not suitable
for the meditative life of Monks and it allows Monks to involvein repair works of monasteries. This brings the idea of restorationand its application for monastic buildings.
Apart from the Buddhist literature, there are many other ancient
books written on conservation. Manjusri Vastuvidyasasthra
which was written in 5th Century AD has a chapter forconservation. It ¿rst identi¿es causes of deteriorations and theremedies that can be implemented in preservation.
They have introduced cultural supernatural believes into thatconservation process. That is how the spirit of the place wasmaintained. It is not the material it is more than the material.
Mayamata (6 century AD an Indian literature) Contains a
Chapter on restoration. This speci¿c chapter titled ‘’temple
Renovation’’ in Mayamata about the rules in renovation. It also
describes general rule in renovation.
The ancient chronicles contain information about the traditional
ways on caring of heritage. Mahavamsa written in 5th century
AD, are good sources of information to study the inspiration ofmonastic architecture and its restorations. The Mahavamsa(Great Chronicle) says about more than 100 incidents ofrepairing, restoration and renewal of monastic buildings. The¿rst stupa in Sri Lanka (The Thuparama) Built in 3rd century BC,
has renovated more than 16 times. It was a foremost duty of a

The numerous inscriptions dating back to the 3rd century BC, 9th
century inscription Jetavana Sanskrit inscription. Precisely
describes the traditional conservation practice in Sri Lanka. The
inscriptions on the stone canoe within the citadel, Anuradhapura isgood source of information about the attitude of them towards therenovation works of religious buildings. The restoration ofreligious buildings was regarded as being so meritorious. Mihintala
slab inscription of Mahinda IV is good source of information toobserve the way of looks after and take care about the religious
buildings and their premises in ancient time. There are two slabs
inscriptions which are identi¿ed as ¿rst part (A) and part B.
Contents of these inscriptions provide a good image of a properly
constituted Buddhist monastery in eleventh century A.D. This
description illustrates how the country grew with Buddhism andhow it continues during the reigns of different kings of the history.
The continuity of practice became life of the shrine. They
renovated white washed restored them as their sacred duty.
Current issues in Conservation and management of Buddhist
heritage
Considering the heritage, the issues should be addressed andhandled by the professional since the interest are far differs fromeach user. For this speci¿c study. it aims to discuss the current
issues in conservation and management of Buddhist heritage.
Heritage values and religious values has to be balanced or should
be introduced a reconciliation between these aspects. Because
many issues concerning the conservation and management wereidenti¿ed as follows.
1. Practicing of modern conservation principles
2. Overcrowding during seasons
3. Practicing of rituals
4. Vandalism
5. Treasure Hunting
6. Carrying capacity
7. Lack of resources to conserve and manage the huge
number of monuments
8. Lack of trained conservators
9. Lack trained senior conservators or professionals to train
the younger generations
10. Lack of ¿nance to train the local conservators by foreign
experts
As all most all monuments and historic cities in Sri Lanka they
became living monuments or historic cities consisted withmonuments. The world heritage site Anuradhapaura inscribed as
the sacred city which is still practicing Buddhist rituals. As such
Anuradhapura was chosen as a case study to discuss the current
issues in conservation and management and the ¿rst three main
issues will be discussed. (Figure 3)

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FIGURE 2. The Great Stupa which is continued with caring

newly crowned king to repair or renew a monastic building.
Mahawamsa and Chulawamsa describes the renovation works,
plaster work festival of stupa during the king Bhatikabhaya.
Chulawamsa describes the ancient practice or renovation ofreligious buildings.

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Issue one - practicing of modern conservation principles
Many of the Buddhist heritage sites have been inscribed as World
Heritages. Sri Lanka has six cultural heritages and two natural
heritages:• Sacred City of Anuradhapura (Inscribed in 1982)• Ancient City of Sigiriya (Inscribed in 1982)• Ancient City of Polonnaruwa (Inscribed in 1982)• Sacred City of Kandy (Inscribed in 1988)• Old Town of Galle and its Forti¿cations (Inscribed in 1988)• Golden Temple of Dambulla (Inscribed in 1991)
The ¿ve out of six cultural sites are Buddhist heritage sites. As
such these sites are assigned with Buddhist rituals and various
Buddhist religious practices since they are living monuments. The
sacred city of Anuradhapura is Buddhist heritage site with a great
importance among Buddhist all over the country. Anuradhapura
was the capital of the Kingdom of Anuradhapura which was
declared as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. Anuradhapura
was a well-planned city which was centred upon a forti¿ed citadel
surrounded by four great monasteries named Abhayagiri,
Mahavihara, Jetawana and Mirisaweti and gridded by a series ofmanmade colossal irrigation lakes. Abayagiri was the largest
monastic establishment which was established in 1st century B.C.
and monastic university that Àourished in Anuradhapura. The
monastery is centred upon the great stupa which is known as
Abhayagiri stupa the dominant structure of the monastery.

Issues regarding the conservation (Figure 4,5,6)
The conservation and management of living monuments are far
different from conservation and management of other secularsites. In Sri Lanka the ownership of the Buddhist monuments arealways with monks who resides at the site. Head priest of the
Temple plays a major role in management. But the conservation
is done by the conservation professionals who are formed andshaped with modern conservation principles.

FIGURE 4. Practicing of Buddhist rituals by the monkin the World Heritage site of Anuradhapura

FIGURE 5. The great stupa – a monument restoredby the secular people in 1950s

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FIGURE 3. Old map of Anuradhapura -Sri Lanka
1909(Source: J. Murray 1909)

FIGURE 6. The rituals are practiced by the pilgrims

Figure 7 (Jetawana stupa) and Figure 8 (Abhegiri stupa) are theexamples that illustrates the contradiction between those twokinds of conservations i.e. Professional and the secular people.
The conservation ethos does not encourage the rituals andworshiping since it remains as a pile of bricks springs out fromearth. This has become the major issue in the conservation andmanagement. Head priest and living community never accept thehalf built unplaster stupa. The issue act in two-fold ways
Religious community won’t go for heritage tourism and they
have the liturgical need of the stupa as it was discussed toworship it as Buddha. But half built stupa does not make a sense
and they reject the professional conservations and tend to go forwhite washed stupa to practice the rituals.
The management of the temple was done by the head priest
basically with the offerings and donations of devotees. When themonument conserved physically regardless of practicing thereligion, people reject to worship them as living Buddha and the0fferings and donations totally depend on the worship, rituals andpracticing of various religious events(pujas). Therefore, the temple
faces a big ¿nancial issue where the temple authority unable tomanage the temple. Therefore, the temple authorities including
head priest demand for the completeness rather than the professional
conservation which not restore beyond the available evidence.

Issue two – Overcrowding during seasons
Management problems of the heritage site
Sri Lankan people are of a tradition of pilgrimage where they aim
to worship the shrines as a paying homage to the Lord Buddha. It
was a great tradition from ancient periods. Social response to
heritage values. The religious values and archaeological values
cater different kind of users. The heritage lovers and pilgrims. In
some seasons the number of pilgrims is highly increased andbadly affects the site where it uncontrollable and dif¿cult tomanage. Figures 9 and 10 will elaborately express the above issue.
Specially the world heritage site of Anuradhapura facing a big
problem in management during the full moon day of Month
June. It is believed that Arahat Mahinda came to Anuradhapura(Sri Lanka) and introduced Buddhism on a full day of June. It isa great and the most important custom in Sri Lanka to hold afestival known as festival to commemorate this signi¿cant
event. Devotees from all over the country visited Anuradhapura
as pilgrimages to worship sacred places and it results theovercrowding in the sites. (Figure 11,12)
The carrying capacity of sites are not able to cater the pilgrims
and tourists. The monuments get damage due to movements ofpilgrims and their different activities also it is very dif¿cult event
to manage where as dif¿cult to manage visitors and Rituals

FIGURE 7. Jetawana stupa the world heritage site of Anuradhapura- conserved by the secular people professionals during 1994-2004

FIGURE 9,10. Conserved monuments become the seating for thepilgrims to observe sill and mediation due to the lack of required
facilities to cater their lethargically needs

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FIGURE 8. After the conservation of Abhegiri stupa at the World
Heritage Site of Anuradhapura- the isolation of the monument
without living activities

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during these seasonal events. Carrying capacity of heritage site is
not suf¿cient to cater the devotees and tourists at the physicalcontext of the site.

1.

Issue three - Practicing of rituals
Buddhist believe that the worshiping of Buddha is one of themeritorious acts which led to attain a happy life after death.
Veneration of stupas and Bodhi trees were signi¿cant events in
the Buddhism in Ceylon and veneration of images became later.
These worships are the respects shown to memory of Buddha
and the relics of his body. Cetiyas were built depositing relics of
Buddha and Beliefs led to the making of chetiya- worship. It wasan important religious activity among both monk and the laity.
Beliefs led to worship and the Worship of Buddha developed as
rituals. Therefore, the beliefs and forms of worship is the strong
intangible heritage behind the tangible heritage of Buddhist.
(Figure 13,14)

2.

The world heritage site of Anuradhapura is most venerated sitein Sri Lanka and the ritual practicing of the sites is in a highest
value. It became a threat for the conserved monuments. Lightingof oil lamps, incants, praying with fragrant or scented smokesand many other offerings on the monuments create vandalism
and minor destruction. They never think that it is an offence forthe monument. (Figure 15,16) As a respect for the religious
value of the monument heritage managers are unable to control
rituals which are practiced by the devotees.

6.

Conclusion
After identifying those issues, some concluding remarks can bemade as a sum of the discussion. Following points are:

3.

4.
5.

7.

To review the Conventional Approach in conservation andits applicability to social and cultural conditions of Sri
Lankan Buddhist heritage and to identify the reconciliationof those two aspects.
To understand the religious value as a living aspect in
Buddhist heritage and Focus on people: both past andpresent and their cultural products and practices, bothtangible and intangible and to identify their expectations andthe goals of conservation professional.
To study the conservation principles with special reference
to Venice charter and identify the reviewing of effectivenessof them and need for their adaptations to Living heritage.
(As a sum of all expressions resulting from the interaction
between people and nature.)
To identify the living community, Living aspects of heritage(continuity) and heritage in a living environment
To manage the visitors – Proper management system should
be introduced while respecting the pilgrims and tourist
To control the ritual practicing whereas the monuments get
disturb – Proper system and proper space should be
introduced in the heritage site to practice the rituals.
To train the conservators and heritage mangers so as to face
the above said issues and other management issues
associated with living monuments.

References
1. Mayamatha (1985), 2. Early history of Buddhism in Ceylon,
E. W. Adikram volume one (1918), 3. Beal: Travels of Buddhist
Pilgrims (1964), 4. Mahavamsa, 5. Pujawaliya, 6. Chulawamsa,
7. Epigraphia zelanica vol.1&3 (1923), 8. History of Buddhism
in Ceylon-Walpola Rahula (1993), 9. A History of Buddhist ofPhilosophy- David J. Kalupahana (1992), 10. Value and Meaningin Cultural Resources, William D. Lipe, 1983

FIGURE 11,12. In the world heritage site of Anuradhapura, overcrowding of the heritagesite due to the Tradition of Pilgrimage on June full moon day.

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FIGURE 14

FIGURE 15

FIGURE 13

FIGURE 16

Vanuatu
Management of Historic Cities and Community Cooperation“Present Situation and Challenges Regarding Preservation of Historic Cities”
Richard Shing, Director
Vanuatu Cultural Centre

Introduction
The Preamble of the ICOMOS Charter for the Conservation ofHistoric Towns and Urban Areas (Washington Charter 1987)
states in it’s opening address that “All urban communities,
whether they have developed gradually over time or have beencreated deliberately, are an expression of the diversity of societies
throughout history”. As I proceed with my presentation of thehistoric town of Port Vila, please take into account the above
statement to comprehend the importance of the preservation of
towns like Port Vila, and many others around our region that facesimilar challenges in the safeguarding of their historic cities.
The ¿rst part of my presentation will be on an example of ahistoric town in Vanuatu, taking into account the development
and changes that occurred over time, and their inÀuences on thepeople today. The second part will discuss the present situationof the history of our urban centres and what the Vanuatu Cultural
Centre has done in the preservation of the history of its urban
centre, and the presentation will conclude with some challenges
Vanuatu and the Vanuatu Cultural Centre are currently facing insafeguarding historic buildings.
Port Vila – a historic town.
Vanuatu has two main urban centres, Luganville on the island of
Santo and Port Vila on Efate (show map). Port Vila, being thecapital and the town with the greater degree of transformation,
will be the primary example for this presentation. This reportwill focus on the architecture and people that make up Port Vila,since it is the people that de¿ne the architecture and culture of a
town or city.

Port Vila grew out of a cluster of French plantations within the
Port Vila Harbour area and in 1880, 37 settlers declared theirestablishment the town of Franceville. At that time, most of thebuildings were constructed out of wood with corrugated ironroofs. Horse and cart were the mode of transportation. The
names of some of these old plantation owners are still used as

In 1906, France and Britain agreed to jointly colonise the New
Hebrides (as it was known then) and their base of administration
was in Port Vila. This brought small changes to the town. Morehouses had to be constructed to accommodate the governmentof¿cials. One such building was the house that eventuallybecame the Joint Court House and Court House after
Independence (show pictures of Joint Court House). Initially it
was built in 1912 to house the Spanish judge, who was the ¿rst
President of the Joint Court, but court proceedings also took
place in the building. During the Second World War, it served as
headquarters for the American forces and after the war, it
retained its function as the Joint Court House. After Vanuatu
gained Independence in 1980, the building continued its function
to house the Supreme Court, but it 1987 it suffered much damage
during Cyclone Uma. It was repaired, but in 2007 it wasdeliberately burnt to the ground. This building used to be an
important historical landmark, and though there are plans torebuild it, is questionable whether they will be rebuilding it to theprevious style and speci¿cations or build a new one altogether.
The arrival of Americans in 1941 also saw an increase in
infrastructure. The main army base was in Luganville, but
headquarters of their operations were in Port Vila. In Port Vilathey extended roads, built bridges and the Bauer¿eld Airport.
Parts of Port Vila still have names used by the Americans, suchas Number Two and Number Three, names of different bases
they established (show map of road changes over time).
In 1950, there was a severe cyclone, and many houses weredamaged. The Colonial administration realised that wooden
house was not strong enough, and after this cyclone, most of thehouses built were built with cement (1950 cyclone).
Other historical buildings from the colonial period still exist
such as the Ex-British Residency Of¿ce (now the Ministry ofInternal Affairs), the Ex-French Residency Of¿ce (now thePrime Minister’s Of¿ce), etc. (shoe pics of other old houses).
People from many different ethnic backgrounds make up Port
Vila’s diverse community today. French Plantation owners
started Port Vila and there were English speaking settlers in thearea before the Condominium Government was established in
1906. Some 5000 Vietnamese were brought in by 1925 by the
French, to labour in the plantations (show pics of Tonkin andmonument), and around 200 Chinese and Japanese artisans andInternational Workshop

Vanuatu was discovered by the European Ferdinand de Quiros in
1906, but it was not until the late 1800’s that missionaries,
traders and plantation owners, of mainly French and English
origins, began establishing themselves in the islands. Port Vila
was quite attractive to the early European settlers since it had alarge natural harbour, with deep water close to land and provided
good shelter against southeasterly trade winds, there was anadequate water source and fertile land suitable for developing
plantations nearby, and the locals were less hostile than in thenorth (show old photos of port villa harbour).

area names in Port Vila, such as Colladeau and Olen (showphotos of wooden buildings and cart).

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farmers had settled in Port Vila by the 1930’s. There were asprinkle of other Europeans. Tahitians, Fijians and natives from
Wallis and Futuna were brought in by the French after theSecond World War to work in the Manganese mine and still
maintain small communities around Port Vila. An area in Port
Vila is named “Number Two Wallis”, after the migrants that
settled there.
Present Situation and Work done regarding the Preservationof Port Vila
There is much rich history about Port Vila, but as it continues toexpand and grow, more and more of the colonial infrastructures
are being taken down to be replaced by new high-rise buildings.
The current friendly relationship Vanuatu shares with China has
led to an inÀux of investment from mainland Asia resulting in
the growth of new buildings in town replacing old woodencolonial structures. The need to preserve much of these historicalbuildings has been negated by the need for economic expansion,and more are more historical buildings are being demolished tomake way for new infrastructure built to expand the economy.
The arguments behind this are:
1.
2.
3.

In most cases is that there are no funds to renovate these
historical buildings and most of them have fallen to disrepair.
Investors offer of large amounts of cash for properties.
Most indigenous Ni-Vanuatu do not associate themselveswith historic infrastructure since they reminded them of thetreatment indigenous populations coped with under British
and French rule.

In 1991, the Vanuatu Cultural and Historical Sites Survey
Program under the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, began the systematicrecording of cultural sites, of which a few historical sites wererecorded around Vanuatu. In 1995, Margaret Rodman, ananthropologist, with the assistance of the Vanuatu Cultural
Centre, did a survey of historical buildings around Vanuatu, andcompiled a list of 80 historical buildings and sites in Port Vilaand compiled as much information that she could gather on thesebuildings and sites. To date, we only have a list of historicalbuildings and short descriptions of them.
After this initial survey, the Vanuatu Cultural Centre continued
into the early 2000’s in attempts to advise the owners of buildingsof historical signi¿cance to continue the preservation of theirproperty, but the major obstacle we faced was the lack of ¿nances
to maintain these infrastructure. Thus, historical buildings kept
getting demolished.

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The Vanuatu Cultural Centre realises that there is still muchwork to be done to appropriately safeguard historical buildings
and sites in Vanuatu, since they are a visible reminder of ourcultural heritage. The biggest threat to our historical buildings
and sites, is commercial development. Port Vila is currently
going through a growth spurt population, due to rural urban drift
and an increase in overseas investors. More than half of thehistorical buildings listed have already been demolished to makeway for high-rise commercial blocks.
Challenges
The major challenges Vanuatu faces are (i) Lack of Expertise,(ii) Lack of indigenous ownership, and (iii) Lack of Funds.
The Vanuatu Cultural Centre lack the expertise in making proper
assessments regarding historical buildings. The Vanuatu
National Heritage Register has only 2 staff in charge of all thecultural, historical and archaeological sites in Vanuatu, and theirwork focuses a lot on cultural and archaeological sites. In
addition, there is currently no program aimed at the safeguardingof historical infrastructure.
Both archaeological and traditional sites represent the physicalremnants of Indigenous communities, whereas historicalbuildings and sites mostly represent the physical remnants of our
European colonisers, and it is mainly for this reason that there isa lack of indigenous empathy and ownership with regards tohistorical buildings.
There is lack of funding to conduct assessments, repair andmaintain historical buildings. For that reason, many of these
historical buildings have been abandoned, left to ruins, andpulled down to make space for larger buildings.
Conclusion
The town of Port Vila is a classic example of an urban communitythat reÀects its diverse historical past, but faced with thechallenges of development and modernisation, the architecturethat reÀects our rich history, are gradually being demolished.
There is an urgency need to prevent our historical building fromvanishing. There is a need to invest in the development of astrategy to safeguard Vanuatu’s historical infrastructure and topromote the importance of these infrastructure in the history of
the Town.

Viet Nam
Urban Heritage Sites in Viet Nam
Vu Thi Ha Ngan, Deputy Chief
Relics and Monuments Management Division, Department of Cultural Heritage, Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism

1. Overview of urban heritage sites in Viet Nam
Charter for the Conservation of Historic Towns and Urban Areas(Washington Charter - 1987) adopted in October 1987 adopted
by ICOMOS General Assembly 21 years ago in October 1987
of¿cially originated a part or overall of world-wide recognitionof historic urban areas "embody the values of traditional urban
cultures". Nowadays, urban heritage sites are often referred to an
urban complex which are mentioned more than an entire city.
However, regardless of any scales, these particular heritage sites
must be highly symbolized for history and culture.

step became independent, reduced the countryside characteristics
and transformed to wards in the city. Normally, the villages
gathered together, build communal houses and pagodas whichwere general religious institutions.

Quoted from architect Hoang Dao Kinh, the prestigious architectin the ¿eld of preservation of cultural heritage in Viet Nam: "Theurban heritage is a complex of matter - architecture - society,formed in the process of evolution of each city, shaped in termsof architecture - landscape; relating to urban culture, it hashistorical - cultural - architectural values and material technical values which should be maintained as supportive
points - origin and source of genes in continuously successive
development of the city.”

1.2. Characteristics of urban heritage sites
The urban heritage sites have been classic and imperial - urban
administration combined with markets outside. This trend has
not changed, which has helped the urban structure of the style ofmandarin’s edi¿ce being kept intact since the 19th century tocreate the abundant and unique of the Vietnamese urban network.

1.1. Historical establishment
Several issues of Vietnamese urban history
Viet Nam is a trading gateway located in the middle of two
major civilizations, India and China. Since the 14th century, themaritime route to the Indian Ocean was set up and became themain trading route, it began to form "trading cities", oriented
towards sea commerce and trade with foreign countries. These
cities are usually located at river gates to the seas.

Due to its establishment, the ancient urban areas of Viet Nam
have been characterized by two social- architecture institutions,they are both village and street. The village is an organic productof the natural ecological area, wet- rice agriculture and especiallyfeudalism. The street is an institution created by farmers, partlyor wholly escaping from agriculture and turning to the "economy"of trading, processing and collecting goods. The small andfragmented economy, on the way of completed professionalism,
gradually formed a lifestyle, folds, and behaviours which are
different from the countryside. So far, after decades of intense
urbanization, there has still been the presence of the villages’
image on the streets. The street, perhaps a long transition, fromvillage to city. This is the specialty of Vietnamese urban areas at
the same time to prevent from cities’ integration. In the history,
the transition from village to street then city has made special
marks, the ancient cities of Viet Nam.
1.3. The system of urban heritage sites in Viet Nam
a / Some typical cities and towns have been recognized andassessed at national and international levels
The urban areas are boldly urbanized, formed and developed inassociation with Vietnamese feudal dynasties. In these areas, thenucleus centres which are usually "old towns" have a long
history.
(1) Hue Imperia Citadel - World Cultural Heritage Site
The Complex of Hue Monument is located in Hue city, including
districts: Huong Tra, Huong Thuy, Phu Vang, and Phu Loc ofThua Thien Hue Province. This was the citadel of Kings andLords under Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945).

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In Viet Nam, the city used to be a combination between politicalspace, protected by the city’s walls (thanh), and marketplace(thi) lied on or adjacent to the city, which provided and served
for the needs of the city citizens, thus it was always bustling andhaving many resident houses. The cities had administrative andmilitary characteristics, together with the development ofhandicraft activities then they also had economic elements.
Beginning in the second half of the 17th century, a new trend
was emerged. Many people left the village and settled in thecities, got jobs, built families, and did not return to their oldvillage thanks to the Lord Trinh’s policy of free trading
development and loosened control. Gradually, they separated
from their villages. In the city, it began to appear the urban
bourgeoisie class. The worship started to be different from thepast, the villagers began to worship gods or ancestors of theircareers related to the history of the city, or concerned to their
daily business activities (ancestors of silver curving, clothweaving, paper printing, etc.). Copies of the old villages step by

To the French colonial period, the 19th and 20th centuries, it hadformed a network of small urban areas, then by the 1930s of the20th century, a number of towns completely separated from thecountryside, and became predecessors of big cities of Viet Nam
at present such as Ha Noi, Hai Phong, Nam Dinh, Sai Gon ...

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On December 11th, 1993, at the 17th Session of the World
Heritage Committee in Cartagena (Colombia), the vestiges of
Hue ancient citadel were inscribed on the World Heritage List
under Criterion (iii): Hue represents an outstanding demonstrationof the power of the vanished Vietnamese feudal empire at its
apogee in the early nineteenth century and Criterion (iv): The
Complex of Hue Monuments is an outstanding example ofEastern feudal capital.
(2) Hoi An Ancient Town - World Cultural Heritage
Hoi An Ancient Town is located in the lower reach of Thu Bon
River, in Quang Nam Province, 30 km south-east of Da Nang
City. Hoi An is one of the ancient towns that has still retained
almost intact. This place was once known as Faifoo, wheretraders from Japan, China, Portugal, Italy knew this name fromthe 16th to 17th century. At that time, the prosperous commercial
port of Hoi An was a major trading centre of the Southeast Asia.
On December 1, 1999, at the 23rd Session of the World Heritage
Committee in Marrakesh (Morocco), Hoi An Ancient Town wasrecognized at the World Heritage List under Criterion (ii)):
Outstanding material manifestation of the fusion of cultures overtime in an international commercial port and Criterion (v): Beingan exceptionally well-preserved example of a traditional Asian
trading port.
(3) Central Sector of Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Ha
Noi - World Cultural Heritage
The central sector of Imperial Citadel of Thang Long - Hanoi,
has a core area of 18.395 ha (including Ha Noi Ancient Citadel
Complex and No.18 Hoang Dieu Archaeological Site) and abuffer zone is 108 ha. The two core areas of the heritage zone are
the unite system in the Thang Long Royal Citadel and they arealso the centre of Thang Long Imperial Citadel. The central
sector of Thang Long - Hanoi was the most important part ofThang Long Imperial Citadel - the capital of whole Dai Vietnation from the 11th to the 18th century.

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On July 31st, 2010, at the 34th Session of the World Heritage
Committee in Brazil, the Central Sector of Imperial Citadel ofThang Long - Ha Noi was rank into the World Heritage Siteunder Criterion ( ii): Bearing witness to the meeting of inÀuences
coming mainly from China in the north and the Kingdom ofChampa in the south, Criterion (iii): Bearing witness to the longcultural tradition of the Viet populations established in the Red
River Delta, it was a continuous seat of power from the 7th
century through to the present day and Criterion (vi): being
directly associated with numerous and important cultural andhistorical events.
(4) Pho Hien / Hien Street - Historical and special nationalart architecture relic site
Pho Hien relic site is a complex of urban relic and large trading
port, which was Àourished from 16th to 18th centuries in theancient Pho Hien (Hung Yen city). From 17th to 18th century,
Pho Hien was a famous port in the Dang Ngoai (Outer Area in

the North of Viet Nam), equivalent to Hoi An in the Dang Trong(Inner Area in the Centre of Viet Nam) under Nguyen Dynasty.
This site had power of public authority organizations, on behalfof the Royal Court taking responsibility as an outpost, port,stronghold to guard and protect the citadel. There were also
many wards and chambers of commerce and production with agreat number of traditional handicraft careers. The major
economic activity of Pho Hien in the second half of 17th century
was trading with many foreign countries, mainly with theJapanese, implemented by Dutch and Chinese merchants.
Besides, this site also welcomed boat trips to Pho Hien fromprovinces of South China, Siam, Indonesia and India, thentransferring products from here to the distant European countries.
(5) Hanoi Old Quarter
Hanoi Old Quarter is the usual name of a long-standing
metropolitan area of Ha Noi located outside Thang Long
Imperial Citadel. This urban area focuses on small-scaleindustrial and commercial activities, which forms streets ofspecial careers of the city and the capital, and has uniquetraditional characteristics of capital’s inhalants. This busy living
residential population and trading area has been set up since theLy dynasty (11th – 13th centuries), situated from the East ofThang Long Citadel to the Red River. Craftsmen from villagesaround ancient Thang Long gathered here, concentrated on eacharea of their professional villages. The merchant ships could bein the middle of the old quarter for buying and selling, making
the streets more and more Àourish. And products themselves
which were selling on the streets created their street names, withthe word "hang" (goods) in front, each street specializing in
trading that kind of product.
(6) Dong Van ancient town
Dong Van ancient town is placed in the centre of Dong Van
district, the northernmost land of Viet Nam. In 1887, Frenchcolonialists occupied Ha Giang province, with its key location,
Dong Van was chosen to build headquarters and booths toauthorize this land. The construction of these headquarters andbooths was completed in 1925. In Dong Van ancient town, there
is an interference between traditional culture of indigenous
people and the culture of the Hoa Nam inhabitants (South China)
including Yunnan, Guangxi and Guangdong, each family in thisancient town has a cross-cultural interaction.
b / Alternate urban heritage sites
According to the process of historical development, extensive
cities under the French colonial period such as Ha Noi, Sai Gon- Gia Dinh, Hai Phong, Nam Dinh have structured quite complete
system of architectural constructions, built on great framework
and artistic qualities, applied Western urban design theory, andcreated urban heritage areas interspersed with modern cities.
These alternate urban heritage sites are often referred to as "oldtowns" dating back to the near-modern era (18th – 20th centuries)
and are largely planned and constructed by the French.

Considering the relationship between the community and urban
heritage, the content of this article will focus on the old towns
where the residents in the community are the main subject andthey have a strong inÀuence on the complexion of the urbansites.
2. Communities and old town heritage sites
In Vietnamese history, community engagement is strongly
expressed in the "unit” in villages. There, sharing and mutual
understanding among villagers is raised, developed, maintained
and become the basic principle for building a self-governing
village with higher internal power than the central government "custom rules the law". Historically, connective community has
played an extremely important role in combating natural
disasters, wars and building synergy. This feature has been
maintained strongly in the old towns.
The subject of the old town is its community. The culture of thecommunity manifests a multifaceted way in the life of residentsof the old town: production, business, religion, belief ..., which isthe decisive factor of internal structure’s formation and theoutside presence of the old town as well.
It is possible to see that the handicraft production and businessspace interwoven under the same roof with living space, that issuitable with the inhabitants’ custom: accommodation +production + small business. The houses close to each other havenarrow facades facing the street, the entire structure of the houses
are square to the streets and up to several dozen meters depth tocreate a special form of housing commonly known as "tubehouse" due to the contrast between the depth and the façade’s
area of houses. The type of this house is usually divided into two
different functional components: the outside is a store including
the place of production, storage and selling products; the inside
is a dwelling house which consists of rooms, a subdivision and acourtyard. The pipe house is a product of spontaneous urban
construction and it has only happened once in the history ofurban development in Viet Nam, a product of the intelligenceand ingenuity of the masons who changed the way of construction
from traditional village to urban model of Viet Nam.

3. Challenges of urban heritage sites must be facinga / Challenges to urban heritage areas in general
In fact, at present, there are still many challenges, especially theconÀict between development needs and requirements of- Practical traditional culture, urban cultural heritage spaces
and opportunity to connect the traditional community
connection with the heritage sites are dully sinking in oblivion,even competed with new cultures;- Strong demand for urban development has split up much of
the urban space (village) before;- The access of villages to urban areas is almost unplannedwith no connection to the infrastructure of the city, so there isa lot of pressure on the living activities of the local community
as well as cultural movement space linked with the community
before;- The cultural works which are currently being exploited focus
on specialized functions more than create community
engagement spaces (for example theatres, cinemas andmuseums without spaces for community);- The community space is not paid much attention indevelopment, even encroached and occupied. Hanoi Old
Quarter is the place that is most recorded the encroachment ofresidents on the heritage space and public ones.
- The renovation and amendments of heritage sites are takenplace at a rapid pace, because the business objectives,commercial activities, and needs of modern life caused by theredecoration, rehabilitation and use of houses – heritage sites
have many infringements on principles of conservation,
historical and original violations.
b/ Challenges from the community- The gradual replacement of traditional economic relations
relied on traditional trades, turned into new ¿nancial stateinterconnection (after State Renovation) based on market
economy products, has gradually disrupted former
communities;- Emigration, immigration and relocation Àows regularly inthe city, among urban sites and from city neighbourhoods andadjacent areas has created a disturbance in the population andthe residents’ essence of urban sites. Newcomers (immigrants)
are more likely to be interested in livelihood opportunities andself-development more than their close linking awareness inthe area. They also have dif¿culty in exposing and forming
long-term relationships with indigenous peoples;- Emigration and immigration Àow also bring new elements offoreign cultures. Besides the connective traditional community,
new forms of community attachment has appeared (communityof tourists, community of new businessmen class...).

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The structure of the house with many blocks of space and many
houses next to each other make the neighbourhood that expresses
close linking community among generations in a family andamong many homes together. The fairly unity of house and street
structures also reÀects a part of the sustainability of thecommunity. However, the diversity in the unity is also acharacteristic of the old town within the general architecture of
the houses’ formula, each house has its own characteristic which
is very different from each other, then creating a lively picture in
the whole.

preserving the old town space. Major challenges to urban
heritage conservation include:165

- Urbanization and globalization have identi¿ed many cultures,
allowing the emigration of new urban culture. Modern
lifestyles tend to honour personal development much morethan increase collective awareness causing distance and lessconnection between individuals and publics as well as theirliving areas.
In the process of development, bene¿ts of relics’ owners are also
unfair. Different income and bene¿ts from the heritage site istaking place between front houses on the main roads with housesin the backstreets, alleys, between inside the old town and thefringes. Obviously, if the responsibility for preserving theheritage is the same for all stakeholders, the bene¿t of the sitemust also be resolved in a harmonious and reasonable manner.
- The role of individuals in creativity and development is
promoted but at the same time (and together with many otherfactors affecting) the communality is also being declined.
4. Directions and solutions
4.1. Perception
a / To the authorities
Community and urban heritage issues in the legal document
system in Viet Nam.
During past years, UNESCO has promoted the role of thecommunity to the heritage through many actions and guidelines
for the implementation of the World Heritage Convention as
well as giving and developing new policies, within thesemethods, the community is considered as one of extremely
important factors in ensuring the sustainability of the heritage.
According to Ms. Katherine Muller-Marin, Chief Representativeof the UNESCO of¿ce in Ha Noi, "Sustainable development can
only be achieved when there is a balance of interests among
stakeholders, in particular the local community must get beneﬁts
from economical and cultural aspects of the heritage." Theparticipation of people in the management, protection, promotionand exploitation of the heritage is not only a route, a direction,
but it has also been institutionalized in state management
documents. Since the Law on Cultural Heritage was promulgated(2001), the role of the community has been mentioned from
central to the local documents.

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The Constitution of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in 2013,
for the ¿rst time, assigned cultural rights for Vietnamese people,
including the right to approach and access to cultural values in
Article 41: "Everyone has the right to enjoy and access culturalvalues, participate in cultural life, and make use of culturalbases." In addition, the Law on Cultural Heritage in 2001
(amended and supplemented in 2009) regulated activities toprotect and promote cultural heritage values; de¿ned the rights
and obligations of organizations and individuals for cultural
heritages.
On November 21, 2012, at the 4th session of the 13th National
Assembly, Law on the Capital was adopted. In particular, Article

11 speci¿ed that important areas should be concentrated all
resources on preserving and upholding the cultural values
including urban heritage areas, and stipulated the list of typicalancient towns, ancient villages, trade villages, old villas and theother constructions that were built before 1954.
Implementing the provisions of Law on the Capital, on October
24th, 2013, Ha Noi People's Committee promulgated theRegulation on management of planning - architecture of Hanoi
Ancient Quarter and on August 13th, 2015, Ha Noi People's
Committee publicized the Regulation on management ofplanning and architecture of Hanoi Old Quarter. Thus, in Ha Noi
capital, the area of city heritages "Ancient Quarter", "Old
Quarter" has been protected by law.
At present, Viet Nam National Assembly is considering andsoliciting comments on Law on Architecture. In the draft of Law
on Architecture, it has mentioned the concept of "old town". This
draft also provides regulations on management of old towns andthe role of the community as well.
To the world's cultural and natural heritages in Viet Nam, Decree
No. 109/2017/ ND-CP has just been promulgated which alsode¿ned on highlighting the role and responsibility of thecommunity expressed in World Heritage Overall Planning,
Master Plan of World Heritage Management, Regulation on
World Heritage Protection, and Organizations in Responsibilityof World Heritage Management and Operation (Articles 6, 7, 8,
9 and 10).
b / The role of the community in the preservation of urban
heritage sites
Community - social resources and investment to protect urban
architectural heritage. Nowadays, national resources for heritage
preservation are quite limited, and the major source contributing
to heritage preservation starts from the local community. The
community not only preserves the heritage recognized by theState (through heritage certi¿cates and regulations de¿ned inLaw), but also protect heritages which have neither beenrecognized yet nor admitted by the authorities. Resource
mobilization from the community is the future’s trend ofpreserving the heritages because of following reasons: Local
community is persons who are close with the heritage, they
themselves are users and the bene¿ciaries (material or spiritualbene¿ts), the community and the heritage have relationship thathave been af¿rmed and shaped in the past, it is related to social
relationships, economic relations, traditional production, andself-awareness in the society is still inÀuenced by village
correspondences. Especially, spiritual heritages have a certaininÀuence on the community, traditions and social prejudices.
4.2. Solutions should be addressed in preserving urban
heritage sites and community in Viet Nam
a / Raising people's awarenessCommunity awareness education aims to change the awarenessof the inhabitants about the role and the value of the cultural

heritages, thereby together preserving the heritage.
Prof. Dr Dang Van Bai, Vice President of Viet Nam Cultural
Heritage Association proposed: "In the management of cultural
heritage, we should strive to favour conditions for the community
to recognize true value of cultural heritage, access and enjoy
spiritual and material beneﬁts through the preservation ofcultural heritage." According to Mr. Hiroyuki Toyoki, Technical
Director, Cultural Heritage Board, Agency for Cultural Affairsof Japan: "Before inhabitants participate in activities forpreserving and promoting the heritage of ancient villages andold towns to do tourism business, the ﬁrst thing to do is to let thepeople there know the value of the ancient village, the relic in
which they are living. This is a prerequisite for achieving theconservation goal." Understanding the value of the heritage,
making the community attach more to the heritage, considering
inhabitants themselves being the owners of heritage and having
more responsible for the heritage are favourable conditions toprotect the heritages.
b / Preserving community culture
In order to preserve the urban heritage sites, core elements of theheritage must ¿rst be preserved.
Recognition of the old town value is not only tangible cultural
heritages (architectural works), but also intangible culturalvalues – they are villages and streets of handicraft careers,
religion – festival activities, cuisine, lifestyle ... Since then, we
could keep and promote the value of community culture activities
which create the identity of the neighbourhood. The "intangible"

value of the heritage is transformed into the "sustainableeconomic” bene¿t of the community. It is necessary to prove
cultural characteristics in communes and wards, promoting the
economic service sector - tourism developed equitably.
c / Preserving cohesion in the community
Bene¿cial issue and common interest decide enduring in thecommunity. The role of individual is increasingly con¿rmed andquite independent on the community. Therefore, the sustainabilityof the community is mainly dependent on the ability to establish
a balance among individuals, social groups and social interestsof the community. When this balance is set up, it will maintainhigh consensus in the community.
d / Responding to nature
Nature is the living habitat of human being. All people’s
behaviours towards nature will determine the existence and all
cultural values that humans create in this environment. Thus, the¿rst step in preserving the heritage is to raise awareness of thecommunity in dealing with natural environment.
There is no rational management model without being based on
experience and local knowledge, by the community itself, in theprocess of living and interacting with the natural environment,
they feel the fullness of what nature offering. It is necessary to
pay attention to study different types of culture that people haveaccumulated in the process of interacting with nature, so thatthey can be multiplied and transmitted to the descendants inprotecting natural resources, at the same time, they can be
exploited to become unique tourism products.

International Workshop
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