Research & Article

Drawing on field research at the Phanom Rung Historical Park in Buriram Province, the article aims to shed light on some of the conceptual and practical challenges involved in the shifting from the tangible to intangible in heritage management. It traces the history of Phanom Rung’s incorporation into Thailand’s national heritage. Over the course of 20th century, the sanctuary was transformed from a locally sacred site of Buddhist pilgrimage and worship of tutelary spirits, into a national symbol of Thailand’s Khmer heritage. The A discusses the practical question of how to initiate community involvement in the management and interpretation of the sanctuary, particularly given its national significance. - (GL)