Thai Cultural Treasures at Risk After Earthquake Damage Survey

Ministry of Culture orders urgent inspections of iconic temples, including Wat Pho’s Reclining Buddha, amid concerns over structural cracks

 

Thailand's Ministry of Culture has launched an urgent nationwide survey to assess the damage to ancient sites and cultural heritage following the recent earthquake tremors, raising concerns about the structural integrity of some of the country's most revered landmarks.

 

Officials are particularly worried about reports of cracks appearing at key locations, including the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho in Bangkok, the pagoda at Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan, Wat Phra That Hariphunchai Woramahawihan in Lamphun, and Wat Phra That Lampang Luang in Lampang. 

 

The Ministry has instructed the Fine Arts Department and expert teams to conduct immediate inspections.

 

The survey extends to all ancient sites, museums, and artists' residences under the Ministry's purview across Thailand. Any identified damage will trigger swift restoration plans, with a comprehensive report to be submitted to the government.

 



 

Reports are currently being compiled from central and regional agencies. The Inspection Division of the Permanent Secretary's Office of the Ministry of Culture is coordinating the data collection to provide a national overview of the impact.
  

Initial findings from the Fine Arts Department indicate that the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho has sustained cracks in its gilded lacquer surface, potentially exacerbating pre-existing damage. 

 



 

Similarly, cracks have been reported at the pagoda of Wat Prayurawongsawas Worawihan, prompting an immediate on-site investigation by the Ancient Sites Conservation Group.

 

In the provinces, Wat Phra That Lampang Luang and Wat Phra That Hariphunchai Woramahawihan are also under scrutiny, with experts dispatched to assess the extent of the damage. 

 

The Fine Arts Department is committed to providing detailed reports to the government as soon as possible.
  



 

Heads of relevant government agencies, public organisations, and regional offices, including provincial cultural departments, regional fine arts offices, and colleges of dramatic and fine arts, are actively monitoring the situation. 

 

They are tasked with ensuring the safety of personnel, government assets, and facilities, and conducting thorough damage assessments.

(2025/04/01-00:00)