Key Takeaways
The City Wall of Nakhon Si Thammarat: A Testament to History and Architecture
Introduction
The City Wall of Nakhon Si Thammarat stands as a significant emblem of ancientness, fortitude, prosperity, and a long-standing historical legacy in the province. This historic structure is strategically located along the Khlong Na Muang Canal, Moom Pom Road, in Amphoe Muang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, thailand. This article delves into the historical and architectural significance of the City Wall, elaborating on its construction, renovations, and current state.
Historical Context and Construction
The origins of the City Wall trace back to the reign of Phra Chao Sithamma Sokarat, who is credited with founding the city on Had Saai Kaew. During this period, the rampart was constructed, surrounded by a protective ditch, symbolizing the city’s defense mechanisms. According to local legend, the wall has undergone numerous renovations, yet the original line has been remarkably preserved.
In the era of King Narai Maharat, French engineers and architects influenced the design of Thai city walls, leading to the adoption of the Chateau style, which is evident in the City Wall of Nakhon Si Thammarat today. This blend of local and foreign architectural styles highlights the city’s openness to global influences while maintaining its cultural heritage.
Renovations and Modifications
The City Wall experienced significant renovations during the reign of King Rama II. Under the governance of Phraya Nakhon Si Thammarat (Pat), the wall was refurbished to enhance its structural integrity. Later, Chao Phraya Yommarat (Pan Sukhoom), appointed as Phraya Sukhoom Vinai (Samuha Tesa Piban) or the regent of Nakhon Si Thammarat, undertook further modifications. He dismantled the dilapidated sections of the wall and repurposed the bricks to construct roads along the inner city wall.
The Fine Arts Department of Thailand has played a pivotal role in preserving the wall’s northern section, ensuring that the sema stones and the old fort line remain visible. However, other parts of the wall have not been as fortunate, with only brick ruins left as a testament to their past grandeur.
Architectural Layout and Dimensions
The City Wall of Nakhon Si Thammarat is characterized by its rectangular shape, with specific territorial details:
Northern Section
- Width: 11 sen and 10 wa (approximately 440 meters and 22 meters, respectively).
- Current landmarks: The eastern side is adjacent to Wat Moom Pom, while the western side borders Nakhon Si Thammarat Prison.
- Features: A canal serves as the ditch at the front.
Southern Section
- Width: 11 sen and 10 wa.
- Current landmarks: The eastern side is connected to Sopon Wittaya School and Technic Sopon Panit Chayakarn School, while the western side is next to the pier.
- Features: Khlong Pa Lao acts as the ditch.
Eastern Section
- Length: 55 sen and 5 wa (approximately 2200 meters and 10 meters, respectively).
- Current landmarks: The northern side is adjacent to Wat Moom Pom, and the southern side connects to Sopon Wittaya School and Technic Sopon Panit Chayakarn School.
- Features: The ditch is relatively shallow, making this area suitable for settlement.
Western Section
- Length: 55 sen and 5 wa.
- Current landmarks: The northern side adjoins Nakhon Si Thammarat Prison, while the southern side connects to the pier.
- Features: A canal runs along the city wall, turning at the prison’s right corner to serve as a city ditch.
Preservation and Accessibility
The eastern side of the City Wall remains well-preserved, retaining much of its original condition. Visitors can access the City Wall area through two primary routes:
- From the Hua Tanon 4-way intersection, drive onto Ratchadamnoen Road until reaching Nakhon Si Thammarat Prison. Then, turn right onto Moom Pom Road to enter the City Wall area.
- From Nakhon Si Thammarat Railway Station, proceed to Ta Wang 4-way intersection, turn right onto Ratchadamnoen Road, pass Talad Kaek junction, Sanam Na Muang, cross Nakhon Noi Bridge, and finally turn left onto Moom Pom Road.
Conclusion
The City Wall of Nakhon Si Thammarat is more than just a historical structure; it is a symbol of the province’s enduring legacy, resilience, and cultural prosperity. Despite the passage of time and various renovations, the wall continues to stand as a testament to the architectural and historical significance of Nakhon Si Thammarat. Its preservation and ongoing maintenance ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from this remarkable piece of history.
Address And Location:
Ratchadamnoen Road Nai Mueang Mueang Nakhon Si Thammarat Nakhon Si Thammarat 80000