World Monuments Fund Presents

Building the Future at Wat Chaiwatthanaram, Thailand

The centuries-old temple of Wat Chaiwatthanaram is recognized by cultural historians as the structure most emblematic of Buddhism’s influence on Thai society.

Building on over ten years of activity at the site, in July 2021 this month, WMF launched a six-week internship program inviting Thai university students to conduct hands-on conservation work alongside WMF's local project team. In this slideshow, interns Shanikant, Anan, and Nopasin, tell us about their experience in the program and their perspective on a career in heritage preservation.

With photos by Sanpoom Phuthong, WMF staff conservator at Wat Chaiwatthanaram.