🧘 Sukhothai Historical Park
Thailand
About This Sacred Site
Sukhothai Historical Park preserves the ruins of Sukhothai, the first capital of Siam, which flourished in the 13th and 14th centuries. Under King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, Sukhothai is considered the golden age of Thai civilization — he created the Thai alphabet, established Theravada Buddhism as the state religion, and fostered a period of peace and cultural flourishing. The park contains 193 ruins spread across 70 square kilometers, including the iconic Wat Mahathat with its rows of seated Buddha images reflected in lotus-filled ponds. The seated and walking Buddha sculptures of Sukhothai are considered the finest expression of Thai Buddhist art, with their characteristic grace and fluidity.
Key Facts
- •First capital of the Kingdom of Siam, founded in 1238
- •King Ramkhamhaeng created the Thai alphabet here in 1283
- •Sukhothai-style Buddha sculptures are considered the finest in Thai art
- •UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991
- •The park covers 70 square kilometers with 193 ruins on 4 zones
Location
Coordinates: 17.0170, 99.7033
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