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Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai ("Dawn of Happiness") was the first truly
independent Thai Kingdom, which enjoyed a golden age under King Ramkhamhaeng,
who was credited with creating the Thai alphabet. The superb temples and monuments
of this great city have been lovingly restored in Sukhothai Historical Park,
a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for all travelers.
Sukhothai was the first Thai kingdom in this peninsula. One of Thailand's
finest warriors, King Ramkhamhaeng made Sukhothai a powerful and extensive
kingdom.King Ramkhamhaeng opened direct political relations with China and
made two trips to China - the first in 1282 to visit Emperor Kublai Khan
and the second in 1300 after Kublai Khan's death.
From these visits, he returned with Chinese artisans who taught the Thais
the art of pottery. Today, the old "Sangkhalok Potteries" are eagerly sought
by collectors..
A major achievement of King Ramkhamhaeng was the revision of the Khmer alphabets
into a system suitable for writing of Thai words. The alphabet that he invented
in 1283 is essentially the same that is used today.
King Ramkhamhaeng also promoted religion and culture, and through his efforts,
Buddhism progressed among the people. Inspirational faith gave birth to classic
forms of Thai religious arts. Images of the Lord Buddha sculptured during
the Sukhothai Era are cultural treasures which impart a feeling of peace
and serenity.
The gradual decline of Sukhothai occurred during the reigns of the last
two kings. The end of this first Thai kingdom occurred in 1365 when it became
a vassal state of Ayutthaya, a young and rising power to the south. Ayutthaya
became the capital of Thailand before Thon Buri and Bangkok. In all, a total
of eight kings ruled Sukhothai. |
