Sukhothai is a historical park that covers the ruins of the city of Sukhothai, which was the first capital of the Kingdom of Siam during the 13th century AD. As such, it is of central importance in local history, and the history park established on its ruins is a unique historical and cultural focal point. The meaning of the city's name is "dawn of happiness" and it is appropriate for such a binding name, according to the findings it was indeed a bustling city that was a cultural and spiritual center.
During your visit to the park, you can get an impression of the remains of the city and buildings, some of which have been well preserved and some of which have undergone reconstruction, renovation and expansion works. These and these illustrate Thai architecture in its beginnings, which later became the "Sukhothai" style named after the ancient city. This style was influenced by several cultures (including the Hindu and Buddhist cultures) and ancient traditions and it culminates in some of the magnificent temples that still stand today.
The historical park was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1991 due to the fact that it is an extraordinary testimony to the local tradition alongside the cultural development evident in it and as a declaration of the place as a human masterpiece, where you can see the remains of an ancient palace and 26 temples.
What You See?
Noen Prasat
During the 19th century, the remains of the royal palace were discovered from which one can get an impression, among other things, of the ancient palace structure, which has small pools, a water system, burial places and a magnificent stone throne.
King Ramkhamhaeng National Museum
A branch of the National Museum of Thailand which opened in the second half of the 14th century and displays ancient objects alongside valuable collections and unique historical items, mostly from the 15th and XNUMXth centuries AD.
Wat Mahathat
The most important temple among the dozens of temples located in the historical park. The place dates back to the 13th century AD when it served as the main temple of the entire kingdom. It is recommended to visit this temple in order to be impressed by the magnificence of the work and the images of Buddha displayed there.
Wat Si Sawai
An ancient temple which was built in the 12th century AD and part of it has been well preserved over the years while the other parts have undergone renovation and reconstruction. It is a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists and as such it is a focus of pilgrimage for many religious and spiritual people.
Wat Phra Phai Luang
The largest temple in the city and among the oldest which also dates back to the 12th century AD. Not all of the original building has been preserved as it was, but during a visit to the place you will be able to get an impression of the original construction and absorb an atmosphere of holiness and spiritual transcendence.
Wat Sa Si
A small temple which, despite its size, attracts many visitors who visit to enjoy, among other things, the beautiful view from it, making it one of the most beautiful places in the region.
Wat Tra Kuan
A small temple whose construction was completed during the 15th century and has some unique elements that are not characteristic of similar temples from that period.
Wat Pa Mamuang
An ancient temple that was used by the monks of the higher class who lived in front of a grove of mango trees and hence its name, which in free translation is "Monastery of the Mango Forest".
