One hundred and twenty five km to the south of Phetchabun in the district of Wichian Buri are the ruins of Muang Si Thep. The site is of considerable historical significance. It was first excavated by H. G. Quaritch Wales in 1935, and further excavations and restoration of the principal monuments have been carried out subsequently by the Fine Arts Department. The site has been cleared and is now maintained as a park full of fine trees, which provides a magnificent setting for the reconstructed monuments. It covers an area of 4.7 sq. km and is divided into two parts known as the Inner City and Outer City. In the 6 century Si Thep appears to have been ruled by the Mons, who built the Inner City. By the 10 century it had fallen under the rule of the Khmers, who constructed many Khmers monuments and remained at Si Thep until the 12 century, when the city was abandoned and swallowed up by the jungle.
The religious sculpture of Si Thep chiefly consists of a number of exceptionally fine statues of Hindu deities carved in an elegant and naturalistic style. Some Buddhist images, Both Mahayana and Theravada, have also been found at Si Thep.
Leader : Mr. Euayporn Kerdchouay, Senior Consultant, the Siam Society
Participants will leave the Siam Society by bus at 8.00 a.m. on Sunday, 18 January and will return to the Siam Society at 9.30 p.m.
A contribute of 2,550 baht is solicited to meet costs of transportation, 2 meals, entrance fees, and all other arrangements to make the trip possible. Extra charge for non-member 300 baht.
พระบรมราชูปถัมภ์
