THE ANCIENT BUDDHISM SITES IN MIDDLE HIGHLAND: DOCUMENTS AND NEW DISCOVERIES

Abstract

The historical economic ties, cultural exchanges, and ethnic influences between the Central Highlands and the South Central Coast are evidenced by architectural relics, including temples, towers, and Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, as well as Champa steles found in this region (the 7th to 16th centuries). Recent discoveries indicate the presence of Buddhism in the Central Highlands, contributing to archaeological evidence of cultural and religious exchange between the two regions prior to the 10th century.

This study presents documents concerning ancient cultural relics associated with Buddhism and Hinduism in the Central Highlands, thereby enhancing the understanding of the region's history and culture from the 7th to the 16th centuries.