BUTWAL, MAY 12
Deputy Chief of Mission at the US Embassy in Kathmandu Jason Meeks and Cultural Affairs Officer Erica Alexander joined the Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Pandey, along with officials from the Lumbini Provincial Government and the Lumbini Development Trust, to inaugurate the first-ever conservation lab at the Lumbini Museum in Rupandehi district.
According to a statement issued by the embassy, the state-of-the-art conservation lab at the museum was made possible through a $244,966 Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) grant to the Buddha Foundation. The grant also supports conservation, documentation, and preservation of ancient artifacts of cultural and historical significance from the greater Lumbini Area.
The establishment of the lab represents a historic step forward for Lumbini, transforming it into a regional center for archaeological research and preservation while the project also creates opportunities for innovation and collaboration that will position Nepal as a leader in cultural heritage conservation, according to the embassy.
Home to over 300 artifacts dating from the 6th century BCE to the 3rd century CE, the Lumbini Museum safeguards terracotta figurines, stone sculptures, coins, and other relics excavated from the sacred site of Lumbini. "This project marks a transformative step in preserving these cultural treasures, many of which are currently stored at the National Museum in Kathmandu due to limited conservation facilities.
"Lumbini Province's first modern conservation lab-one of the first in Nepal- also enables the study, preservation, and secure storage of artifacts from Lumbini and surrounding archaeological sites. In addition, a comprehensive training program will also build local capacity in archaeological conservation, empowering professionals and students to document and protect Nepal's rich cultural heritage for generations to come.
AFCP provides direct grant support for preserving cultural heritage in developing countries. Nepal ranks among the top recipients of AFCP grants globally.
Over the past two decades, the U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu has funded 28 cultural heritage restoration projects in Nepal, totaling over $4.54 million.Located at the birthplace of the Buddha, the Lumbini Museum preserves and showcases artifacts from one of the world's most significant cultural and religious sites. Its collection offers a glimpse into the deep history of Lumbini and its enduring role as a center of Buddhist culture.
The AFCP projects strengthen U.S.-Nepal ties by promoting sustainable tourism, economic growth, and cultural preservation, while enhancing diplomatic relations and creating opportunities for local and US businesses in tourism, hospitality and education-benefiting communities in both nations, according to the embassy.
