The provinces of the northeast are known collectively as isaan. The region has a long history of civilization beginning with the 2000-year-old bronze culture of Ban Chiang. Archaeological research reveals its development was influenced by the Dvaravati culture from the central region, the Lopburi or old Khmer culture, Lanna culture from the north and the Ayutthaya and Ratanakosin (Bangkok) cultures from the south. Many restored or excavated sites of historical and archaeological significance along with historical records reflect its interesting past