Ecolex Logo
The gateway to
environmental law
Search results » Treaty decision

Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape (Lao People's Democratic Republic)

Document type
Decision
Reference number
X.A
Date
Dec 11, 2001
Source
UNEP, InforMEA
Status
Active
Subject
Wild species & ecosystems
Treaty
Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage (Nov 23, 1972)
Meeting
25e session du Comité
Website
whc.unesco.org
Abstract

Property: Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape

Id. N°: 481

State Party: Lao People's Democratic Republic

Criteria: C (iii) (iv) (vi)

The Committee inscribed Vat Phou and Associated Ancient Settlements within the Champasak Cultural Landscape on the World Heritage List under criteria (iii), (iv) and (vi):

Criterion (iii): The Temple Complex of Vat Phou bears exceptional testimony to the cultures of south-east Asia, and in particular to the Khmer Empire which dominated the region in the 10th-14th centuries.

Criterion (iv): The Vat Phou complex is an outstanding example of the integration of a symbolic landscape of great spiritual significance to its natural surroundings.

Criterion (vi): Contrived to express the Hindu version of the relationship between nature and humanity, Vat Phou exhibits a remarkable complex of monuments and other structures over an extensive area between river and mountain, some of outstanding architecture, many containing great works of art, and all expressing intense religious conviction and commitment.