Phra Ruang Palace Mound, located to the east of Wat Mahathat within the Sukhothai Historical Park, is a historical site of great significance to both the history and culture of Sukhothai. Although its name and earlier assumptions suggest it might have been the base of a royal palace in the Sukhothai period, archaeological evidence and recent studies indicate that it was more likely a religious site or a large pavilion used for ceremonies and community activities rather than a king’s palace. For those interested in history and heritage tourism, understanding the historical context of this site is crucial to fully appreciate its value and significance.

 

According to historical records, King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) surveyed the ancient city of Sukhothai in 1907 (B.E. 2450) and speculated that the rectangular mound to the east of Wat Mahathat was likely the palace and courtyard of the Sukhothai kings. This early observation laid the groundwork for subsequent academic research on Sukhothai’s history and architecture. However, archaeological excavations conducted by the Fine Arts Department in 1983 (B.E. 2526) revealed structural evidence suggesting that Phra Ruang Palace Mound may not have been a royal residence. The excavations uncovered a building foundation with a cruciform lotus base design, measuring 27.50 by 51.50 meters, with stairways at the front and back. The design of this foundation resembles religious structures more than a royal palace, as Sukhothai royal residences were typically wooden halls on lower platforms.

 

Archaeologists and historians have analyzed the findings to better understand the purpose of Phra Ruang Palace Mound. Piset Jiachanpong, an archaeologist from the Fine Arts Department, noted that the discovery of ceramic vessels, including Song dynasty and Qing dynasty Chinese ceramics, Khmer ceramics, Yuan and Ming dynasty ceramics, and locally made Sukhothai ceramics, indicates that the area was primarily residential rather than a place dedicated solely to royal functions. These ceramics were typically used in everyday life and suggest domestic occupation.

 

Moreover, historian Sujit Wongthes pointed out that Sukhothai’s monuments were heavily influenced by Sri Lankan Buddhist architecture. He proposed that the mound may have functioned as a large ceremonial hall or pavilion for merit-making, religious rites, and community activities. This interpretation aligns with the mound’s proximity to Wat Mahathat, the religious and cultural center of Sukhothai, highlighting the integration of religious, social, and urban planning in the ancient city.

 

Old maps from the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) also indicate that the mound was part of the Wat Mahathat complex and was likely a structure related to religious or ceremonial activities rather than a royal palace. Royal residences in Sukhothai were usually constructed from wood on low platforms, set apart from temples for privacy. This perspective helps clarify the meaning behind the name “Phra Ruang Palace Mound,” which, despite suggesting grandeur, may in fact refer to a religious structure or ceremonial pavilion.

 

The artifacts discovered during excavations, including locally produced ceramics and imported vessels from China and Cambodia, reveal Sukhothai’s active trade networks and cultural exchanges during that period. Song and Qing dynasty Chinese ceramics indicate trade with northern and central China, while Khmer ceramics reflect cultural and commercial ties with the Khmer empire. Locally produced Sukhothai ceramics further demonstrate the kingdom’s craftsmanship, economic development, and artistic capability.

 

Studying Phra Ruang Palace Mound provides insights into Sukhothai’s city layout, architectural planning, and religious practices. The city’s organization demonstrates the close relationship between religious centers, social spaces, and governance. The mound itself illustrates how religious and communal spaces were integrated into urban life, allowing the public to participate in religious ceremonies and social gatherings conveniently.

 

Phra Ruang Palace Mound also holds cultural and tourism significance as part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sukhothai Historical Park. Preservation and research of this site allow visitors to understand the historical prosperity and cultural sophistication of Sukhothai while appreciating the architectural techniques of the lotus-base foundation unique to the period. Conservation efforts ensure that the structure is protected from natural weathering and erosion, while also providing a space for ongoing archaeological study and education.

 

The mound reflects the cultural diversity of Sukhothai, highlighting influences from Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and China. The city’s adaptation of foreign architectural and ceremonial practices demonstrates its openness to cultural exchange and innovation. The design of religious and ceremonial pavilions showcases creativity and illustrates the relationship between architecture and daily life. Interpreting Phra Ruang Palace Mound in this context allows scholars and visitors to understand the interconnectedness of society, religion, and economy during the Sukhothai era.

 

Phra Ruang Palace Mound is also an important learning resource for archaeologists, historians, and tourists interested in Thai history. Visiting the site provides insight into Sukhothai’s city planning and allows comparisons with other northern and central Thai historical sites. Observing the foundation structure and artifacts encourages awareness of the importance of cultural heritage and emphasizes the necessity of conservation to pass on knowledge to future generations.

 

In summary, Phra Ruang Palace Mound is a historically, architecturally, and culturally significant site in Sukhothai. While its name suggests it may have been a royal palace, archaeological evidence indicates it was more likely a religious site or ceremonial pavilion used for community activities. Visiting and studying this site offers a window into the daily life, beliefs, and cultural achievements of Sukhothai’s inhabitants, while emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural heritage for education and appreciation by future generations.