Description
This was a five year project commenced in1992, directed by University of Canberra, Cultural Heritage Studies, for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. It formed part of a Foreign Aid program to the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Tam Ting is a Buddhist shrine within two separate limestone caves on the Mekong River, adjacent to the village of Pak Ou. The shrine formed part of the ceremonial life of the former Lao royal family. Over 400 sculptures of Buddha are housed in the caves. The program aimed to address deterioration from tourism, looting and natural decay, by providing conservation advice and facilitating management works. Respect for, and maintenance of the religious values of the place were parallel requirements.
