Si Thep Historical Park: A World Heritage Site Overwhelmed
Si Thep Historical Park, located in Phetchabun province, has recently been listed as a World Heritage Site (WHS) by UNESCO. This recognition has raised concerns about the park’s preparedness to handle the anticipated increase in tourist numbers. The ancient city of Si Thep was proposed for inclusion in the world heritage list by the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (Onep) and the Fine Arts Department in 2019. With its recent listing as a cultural site during the UNESCO World Heritage Committee’s extended 45th session in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Si Thep became Thailand’s fourth cultural World Heritage Site, joining Sukhothai Historical Park, Ayutthaya Historical Park, and Ban Chiang Archaeological Site.