PRESERVING STRATEGY OF THE FORTS OF PAKNAM SAMUT PRAKAN AS A SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT FOR HISTORICAL HERITAGE AND URBAN TOURISM

Abstract

This research aims to propose conservation strategies for historic forts in the Paknam Samut Prakan area in order to support the development of sustainable historical tourism. The study area has long been a strategic maritime gateway to Bangkok since the Ayutthaya and early Rattanakosin periods, resulting in the establishment of numerous fortifications with significant historical, architectural, and cultural landscape values. However, rapid urban development, community expansion, and the lack of integrated management have led to the deterioration of many forts and a declining public awareness of their heritage significance. This study employs a combination of documentary research, field surveys, and spatial analysis to assess the current conditions, potentials, and limitations of the historic forts in Paknam Samut Prakan. The analysis is framed within concepts of cultural heritage conservation and sustainable tourism development. The findings indicate that these forts possess strong potential to be developed into a historical tourism network, as they are closely connected to the Chao Phraya River landscape, traditional communities, and water-based transportation systems. Nevertheless, development must carefully address physical constraints, accessibility issues, and the need to enhance public interpretation and awareness.

Keywords: Cultural Heritage Conservation, Historical Tourism, Sustainable Tourism, Cultural Landscape