THE Department of Archaeology and Na­tional Museums (Bagan Branch) has commenced research into the founda­tion construction systems of historic structures with­in the Bagan World Herit­age Site.

While the architec­tural and artistic features of ancient buildings con­structed across succes­sive eras in Bagan can be observed visually, this research focuses on the underground foundation systems of three ancient buildings from different pe­riods: Ngakywenahtaung Pagoda, Paukpinya Pago­da, and Ancient Building 1905. Fieldwork began in the first week of June, with initial excavations under­way at Ngakywenahtaung Pagoda (Ancient Building 1603).

Historians believe that the two-storey Ng­akywenahtaung Pagoda dates back to the Pyu era. Investigators are currently excavating and studying both the inner and exterior foundations of the pagoda. During the excavation of the exterior foundation, researchers identified four distinct soil layers.

Bagan is a historic city globally recognized for its unique cultural value, and its heritage el­ements remain remark­ably intact. There are 242 ancient structures located within the Buffer Area and 3,595 within the Property Area, making a total of 3,837 ancient buildings. Myanmar’s historical documents and on-site evidence confirm that from the 11th to the 13th centuries, Bagan was a magnificent city with a highly advanced culture. — ASH/MKKS