Special Lecture on Myanmar's Ancient Cities Held at Shan State Buddhist University
17 September 2025, Taunggyi, Shan State, Myanmar – A special academic lecture titled "Exploring the Archaeological Sites of Myanmar" was held at Shan State Buddhist University today. The event, part of the university's MA module on Buddhist Art and Archaeology in Ancient Myanmar, featured renowned archaeologist Prof. Dr. Bob Hudson. The lecture was chaired by Dean Sayadaw Ven. Dr. Pannyabhoga and moderated by the course convenor, Dr. Kyaw Minn Htin.
The lecture provided a deep dive into the early urban centres of Upper Burma, drawing from Prof. Hudson's decades of fieldwork and research. Dr. Kyaw Minn Htin, in his warm introduction, highlighted Prof. Hudson's profound contributions to the field, noting his pivotal role in the UNESCO World Heritage nominations of both Bagan and the Ancient Pyu Cities. He also shared a personal anecdote from 22 years ago, recalling Prof. Hudson's generous guidance to him as a young archaeology student, which exemplified the professor's dedication as both a great researcher and a teacher.
Unearthing the Foundations of Burmese Civilization
In his keynote address, Prof. Dr. Bob Hudson, who is affiliated with the University of Sydney, focused on his extensive research into the Pyu cities and the origins of the ancient city of Bagan. His work, including his seminal PhD thesis "The Origins of Bagan," has been instrumental in shaping the understanding of Myanmar's early history.
Dr. Bob Hudson highlighted the diversity of Myanmar's archaeological landscape, from the early urban centres of the Pyu civilizations to the influential ancient kingdoms of Arakan. His lecture moved beyond theory to explain the practical tools and fieldwork strategies used to answer fundamental research questions. The lecture also highlighted the significance of the Pyu Ancient Cities, showcasing the innovations of early urban Buddhist civilization, including their sophisticated water management systems.
A Legacy of Fieldwork and Collaboration
Prof. Bob Hudson also emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, combining rigorous archaeological survey, excavation, and mapping with historical research. His lecture underscored the value of long-term international collaboration and knowledge sharing in preserving and understanding Myanmar's rich cultural legacy.
The event was attended by university faculty, SSBU students, and invited Buddhist scholars, fostering important dialogue on the methods and discoveries that continue to reveal Myanmar's ancient past.