Ayutthaya, Thailand (November 15, 2024):  The U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, in collaboration with the Fine Arts Department and the World Monuments Fund (WMF), proudly celebrated the successful completion of the Wat Chaiwatthanaram Conservation Project with a closing ceremony at Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province.

The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) Wat Chaiwatthanaram Conservation Project, which began in 2012, has been a collaborative effort aimed at restoring the 17th-century temple following the devastating floods of 2011. Over the past 12 years, the project received a total of $1.8 million in funding from the U.S. government, making it one of the largest AFCP projects globally.

The ceremony commenced with the inauguration of the Wat Chaiwatthanaram Pavilion, where U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Robert F. Godec; Mr. Phnombootra Chandrajoti, Director-General, Fine Arts Department; and Mr. Jonathan Bell, Vice President of Programs at the World Monuments Fund participated in the culturally significant “Jong Priang” ceremony.  The ceremony derived from an ancient fire-worship ritual dedicated to sacred beings in Buddhism during the Ayutthaya period that was held in the twelfth month of each year, which coincides with the modern Loy Krathong festival.

The official project closing ceremony then followed, with a short documentary showcasing the 12-year U.S.-Thai cooperation to preserve Thai cultural heritage. Ms. Bella Ranee Campen, renowned for her role in the TV series “Love Destiny,” also spoke about the importance of Wat Chaiwatthanaram and preserving Thai cultural heritage.

In his remarks, Ambassador Godec said, “Cultural preservation is one of the enduring threads that binds the two countries together. The purpose of the U.S. Ambassador’s Fund was to show American respect for other cultures around the world, and as a demonstration of our friendship. Here in Thailand, we have awarded grants for 20 projects to help conserve Thailand’s incredible cultural heritage. The largest U.S. Ambassador’s Fund project in Thailand, and one of our largest in the world, is the preservation of this breathtaking 17th-Century temple. The reconstruction that we have helped fund here will ensure that the meru — or towers — and southern flood wall will protect this important site for future generations. Not just for future generations of Thais, but also for the thousands of tourists who come each year to marvel at the grandeur of this ancient capital of Siam.”

The event concluded with special performances of a Thai Contemporary Khon titled “The Magnificent Ramakien: Strengthening U.S.-Thai Relations,” a laser lighting presentation highlighting the restored Merus, a spectacular fireworks display by the Fine Arts Department, and an environmentally-friendly Loy Krathong ceremony on the riverbank.

The Wat Chaiwatthanaram Conservation Project has not only restored the temple to its original state prior to the flood but also increased awareness and community involvement in cultural heritage conservation. The project has promoted conservation-based tourism and strengthened the relationship between the United States and Thailand.

The U.S. Embassy Bangkok extends its sincere gratitude to our esteemed partners, Thailand’s Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture and the World Monuments Fund (WMF), for their unwavering commitment to preserving cultural heritage in Thailand over the course of our 12-year partnership on this conservation project. Additionally, the U.S. Embassy Bangkok expresses its appreciation to Thai Beverage Company Limited for their generous sponsorship of beverages and a photo booth from Chayanitikorn Picture Studio at the closing ceremony.

About the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP):

The AFCP, supported by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State, demonstrates American leadership in the preservation of cultural heritage around the world. Since its inception in 2001, AFCP has helped preserve cultural sites, objects, and forms of traditional cultural expression globally, showing respect for other cultures and their historical contributions.

Learn more about the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation projects in Thailand and download additional press materials here: bit.ly/afcpwatchai.