Situated in Ban Phue District, this
archaeological site features a large number of ancient buildings and
ancient objects of both prehistoric and historic times. They are mostly
of Dvaravati, Lop Buri, and Lanchang style.
The site is located in a thriving forest called Pa Khua Nam. In
addition, within the site are many rocks of peculiar shapes which
resulted from glacial movement millions of years ago. It can be seen
that most of the ancient buildings and objects found in this area were
modified from what was naturally available and not built entirely by
human beings. For instance, a rock was decorated to make a stupa or was
chiseled into the shape of a foot.
The site was
declared a historical park by the Fine Arts Department in 1991.
Archeological evidence found at the site includes Phra Phuttabat Bua
Bok, Phra Phuttabat Lang Tao, Phra Phutta Bat Bua Ban, religious
buildings modified from rocks, sandstone bai-sema (leaf-shaped stones
marking the limits of a Buddhist temple), sandstone images and idols,
cave paintings and stone axes.
Phu Phra Bat
Historical Park covers the entire area of the Phra Phutthabat Bua Bok
which is around 1,200 acres. In addition to the beautiful landscape,
caves and caverns, rocks of different sizes and shapes dot the area.
Moreover, pre-historic paintings over cliff faces have been discovered,
although many leave only the faintest of traces.
Visitors are
recommended to explore Tham Non Sao Ae, Tham Woa Daeng, Tham Chang, and
Tham Sung to see the paintings that depict the livelihood of
pre-historical community which can be traced back to approximately
2,500-3,000 years ago.
The sandstone bai-sema, sandstone images and idols of Dvaravati era are also discovered at Poeng Hin Po Ta Luk Koei.
Admission fee is 100 baht.
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