The King Ramkhamhaeng Monument is located in Ban Kao Subdistrict, Mueang District, Sukhothai Province. It stands as a significant symbol reflecting the historical prosperity and cultural heritage of Thailand. This site is not only the location of the monument but also serves as a center for culture, education, and tourism, attracting both domestic and international visitors who wish to learn about the Sukhothai era and the virtuous king, King Ramkhamhaeng.

 

The monument was constructed in 1975 to honor King Ramkhamhaeng, who laid the foundations of the Sukhothai Kingdom. He established laws and governance systems that have influenced Thai society to this day. The statue is made of bronze mixed with brass, standing 3 meters high and weighing approximately 3 tons. The king is depicted seated with his legs hanging over a Manangsilaa-style throne, measuring 4 meters in length and 2.88 meters in width, designed to match the historical proportions accurately. The face of the statue reflects the early Sukhothai artistic style, portraying compassion, justice, and decisiveness in governance.

 

The king’s right hand holds a traditional Thai book, symbolizing his extensive knowledge and wisdom, while his left hand is positioned in a teaching gesture, representing guidance to his subjects or the administration of royal duties. His attire and regalia are inspired by Sukhothai-era divine statues, reflecting meticulous design and aesthetic refinement.

 

The sculptor of the King Ramkhamhaeng Monument was Mr. Sanan Silakorn, a master craftsman of the Fine Arts Department and a disciple of Professor Silpa Bhirasri, the founder of Silpakorn University. His expertise ensured that the statue is both realistic and artistically impressive, transmitting Thai cultural and artistic values to future generations.

 

The official construction history began on January 25, 1964, when His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen presided over the opening ceremony of the Sukhothai National Museum and conducted a merit-making ceremony for King Naresuan at Wat Si Chum. During this event, the public requested the construction of a monument for King Ramkhamhaeng, noting that monuments of other great Thai kings had already been built. The proposal was submitted to the Ministry of Interior and approved by the Cabinet on July 7, 1964.

 

A committee was established to oversee the design, modeling, and casting of the statue, with the Fine Arts Department taking the primary responsibility. Careful consideration was given to the location, focusing on historical significance. The selected site was a 26-rai plot along the inner highway within the old city walls, with the northern boundary adjoining Wat Takuan, a deserted temple, and the western boundary bordering the Takuan Pond. In 1977, the Fine Arts Department carried out landscaping and modifications to harmonize the monument with the Sukhothai Historical Park’s surroundings.

 

The cornerstone-laying ceremony for the monument’s base took place on November 26, 1969. After the design and clay modeling were completed, His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen presided over the casting ceremony at the Fine Arts Department on December 7, 1970. The casting process involved sophisticated artistic techniques to achieve both accuracy and intricate detail.

 

Once the statue and the bas-relief panels depicting events from King Ramkhamhaeng’s reign were completed, the province temporarily installed the statue at a ceremonial pavilion on Neun Prasat Hill to allow public veneration while the base and surrounding layout were still under construction. The temporary installation occurred on April 13, 1975, and remained for one year. Upon completion of the base, the statue was relocated to its permanent foundation on April 13, 1976, accompanied by a grand celebratory festival.

 

The King Ramkhamhaeng Monument is not only a historical and cultural symbol of Sukhothai but also a center for learning about the Sukhothai era. Students, researchers, and tourists can closely study Thai history, architecture, and art. The surrounding landscape is designed with gardens, shaded walkways, and scenic viewpoints, providing visitors with an immersive educational and aesthetic experience.

 

Artistically, the monument showcases meticulous craftsmanship. The arrangement of the Mangangsilaa-style throne, hands, Thai book, and ceremonial sword tray demonstrates a careful attention to historical detail. The bas-relief panels narrate significant events from the king’s reign, offering a complete historical perspective.

 

Furthermore, the monument serves as a place for studying ancient Thai script and royal laws, initiated by King Ramkhamhaeng, who created Thailand’s first writing system and legal code. This enables scholars and visitors to understand the governance, administration, and societal development of the Sukhothai period. The monument also inspires pride, patriotism, and cultural preservation among younger generations and the wider community.

 

In terms of tourism, the monument is a key destination for both Thai and international visitors. People can explore the landscape, appreciate art and historical details, and participate in cultural activities such as historical exhibitions, ancient artifacts displays, traditional Thai performances, and demonstrations of old Thai script.

 

The surrounding environment is designed as a public space for both learning and relaxation. The harmonious landscaping and pathways complement the Sukhothai Historical Park, allowing visitors to experience both natural beauty and historical grandeur.

 

Overall, the King Ramkhamhaeng Monument is more than just a commemorative statue. It serves as a hub for education, history, art, and cultural pride, reflecting the greatness of the Sukhothai Kingdom and the king’s role in nation-building. It preserves and promotes Thai art, culture, and history for current and future generations.