The archaeological and historical remains indicate that civilization first emerged on the Isan Plateau in prehistoric times, about 4,000 – 1,800 years ago. During the historic period, a variety of cultures flourished. Importan examples are: the Dvaravati culture which was similar to the one found in the central part of Thailand, the 6th – 10th centuries. The Khmer culture which was influenced by Cambodia between the 6th – 13th centuries; the Lanchang culture from Laos: the Thai culture from Ayutthaya and Bangkok from the 15th century to the present. As a result, the area is rich in cultural heritage.