Research & Article

A Comparative Study of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) for Phra That Phanom towards World Heritage on Cultural Criteria

By Tarawut Boonlua, Yupaporn Chaiyasan

Published on 23 May 2024

World Heritage
Location of original sources

Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences Nakhon Phanom University, Vol. 11 No. 3 (2021)


The research aims to study and compare the Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of Phra That Phanom, furthermore it offers a recommendation on urban management in the area. Research Methodology was related on concepts and theories, by surveyed and observation as well as the participation with local people.  The final research completed together with in-depth interviews from 8 experts, the sampling group was selected from the total of 6 sources. The study of outstanding international values ​​consisted with 3 criteria: Criteria 1, being a blended art and developing into a unique architectural style. Criterion 2: Architectural style influenced the modeling of Phra That Phanom as unique identity in the Northeast and the 6 criterion is a cultural inheritance. Traditions are linked with the worship of Urangkathat. A comparative study found that the source that could be used as a guideline for the registration as the World Cultural Heritage most was Wat Maha Pho (Bodhgaya) and the Borobudur Temple group. The suggestion of area management was found to be divided into 2 areas: planning and operation of area conservation. Suggesting guidance on area management through participation processes in all sectors. In addition to focus on the local level, namely temples and communities as the owner of the area and government agencies in the area, the central government level needs to help support the management of a shared space for sustainability