(VOVWORLD) - The Oc Eo-Ba The archaeological site in An Giang province have been nominated for recognition by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site.
 The excavation pits at the Oc Eo-Ba The archaeological complex in Thoai Son, An Giang province (Photo: VGP) |
Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh has just agreed to submit the nomination dossier to UNESCO. The Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism is authorised to sign the dossier on behalf of the Government for submission to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre before the end of this month, while promoting Vietnam's position and role within UNESCO's governing mechanisms.
Covering a total area of 433 hectares, the Oc Eo-Ba The archaeological and architectural site is an important relic of the Oc Eo civilization, which flourished in southern Vietnam from the 1st to the 7th century AD.
This was one of the major trading centers of the ancient Funan kingdom with its canal system, architecture, and archaeological artifacts reflecting a high level of economic, cultural, and religious development.
An Giang province has more than 80 Oc Eo cultural relics, of which the Oc Eo-Ba The site is one of the most important, having once been a port city and a major economic and cultural center of the Funan kingdom. The site was designated a Special National Relic in 2012.