The bureau gives Blue Plaque designations to locations deemed to have links to the nation’s history. Maha Bandoola Park faces across to the landmark Sule Pagoda and has been the setting for historic events such as Bogyoke Aung San's speeches and demonstrations against British colonial rule in the mid-20th century and the so-called Saffron Uprising eight years ago.
The Global New Light of Myanmar reports that Maha Bandoola is still the venue of choice for organisers when they are laying on special events. When the British first arrived in the 1850s the area was swampland. It was cleared for public park use and in 2012 was given a major facelift. Since then, it has fast evolved into a favourite with tourists and residents alike when they are looking for somewhere to chill and watch the world pass by.
Maha Bandoola joins illustrious Yangon landmarks including City Hall, the Armenian Church and the Old Post Office with its Blue Plaque listing. Most buildings are throwbacks to the era of British rule. Sites with the designation all have physical plaques installed.
Revamped Yangon park garners iconic landmark designation
News in Asia
The Culture and Heritage Bureau in Myanmar has awarded one of Yangon’s parks a prestigious designation. The Heritage Trust designated the former national capital’s Maha Bandoola Park as a Blue Plaque site.