ABSTRACT
Politically isolated and the subject of comparatively little involvement or research by the world beyond its borders, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar (called Burma from 1835 to 1989, during British rule)1 is fast evolving from its former shadowy presence on the international heritage conservation landscape, with its vast cultural riches and world-renowned sites. Home to several indigenous imperial capitals, most notably Mandalay and Bagan (formerly Pagan), and their
FIGURE 6.2 Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon is one of Myanmar’s most sacred temples and one of the region’s most important Buddhist heritage sites. Originally built in 1485 ce its present form dates from 1769 ce. It is the principal architectural landmark of Yangon (with maintenance work visible here) and represents a continuity of design in Buddhist architecture.
