Chula and the Russian Embassy Co-organize “The Guarded City” Project on Wartime Cultural Heritage Preservation
On October 28, 2025, the Office of Art and Culture, in collaboration with the Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Thailand, and the Cultural Preservation Foundation, successfully organized The Guarded City: “Architecture of the Blockade – The Preservation of Leningrad during WWII” at the Music Hall, Art and Culture Building, Chulalongkorn University.
The event was held in honor of the 128th anniversary of diplomatic friendship between Thailand and Russia, marking King Chulalongkorn’s historic visit to Russia. The project aims to promote the conservation and protection of historical heritage—an essential foundation of humanity—and to raise international awareness on the importance of preserving cultural heritage during times of crisis.
A Symbol of Bilateral Friendship
The opening ceremony was presided over by H.E. Mr. Evgeny Tomikhin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Thailand. Assoc. Prof. Yootthana Chuppunnarat, Vice President of Chulalongkorn University, delivered the welcoming remarks on behalf of the university. The event was also attended by Assistant Professor Sarayut Supsook, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, along with university executives and many interested participants.
The project focused on a case study of the preservation of architectural heritage in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg) during World War II, when the city was under siege for 872 days.
Key Highlights Included:
- Special Documentary Screening: “Architecture of the Blockade” — telling the story of wartime architectural preservation.
- Photography Exhibition: “Leningrad Liberation Salute” — showcasing historical imagery related to the liberation and resilience of the city.
- Academic Lecture: “Architecture of the Blockade: The Preservation of Leningrad during WWII” — presenting the achievements of architects, restorers, engineers, and citizens who protected cultural heritage during the siege.
- Special Lecture Connecting to the Thai Context: “The Bombing of Bangkok during WWII: Destruction and Preservation (1942–1945)” by Associate Professor Dr. Pirasri Povatong, exploring parallels in Thailand’s own wartime conservation experiences.
This project exemplified the strong collaboration between Thai academic institutions and the Russian Embassy in promoting education, awareness and international dialogue on cultural heritage preservation.
