Phanthai Norasing Historical Park is a significant historical and cultural site that showcases the region's rich heritage of Samut Sakhon. The park is named after Phanthai Norasing, a legendary warrior from the Ayutthaya period.
Interesting History of Phanthai Norasing Historical Park
Sing, from present-day Amphoe Pa Mok in Anthong province, was a companion of the Royal Barge "Ekkachai" during the Ayutthaya period. In recognition, Somdet Phra Sanphet VIII (King Prachao Suea) gave him the title of Phantai Norasing.
One day in 1702, the king and his companions set off on a boat trip through the winding Khok Kham canal. Caution and a rudder were the order of the day, but Phantai Norasing couldn't prevent the boat from hitting an overhanging tree branch.
The royal law of the day was clear: such negligence literally cost Phantai Norasing his life. He was beheaded on the spot. But even if the king didn't think the death penalty was worth it, Phantai Norasing insisted that the law be respected to the letter. For him, it was far from an honor to be exempt from the law, and the king had no choice but to order his beheading.
Later, the king ordered the construction of a shrine with a statue of Phanthai Norasing in memory of a man who sacrificed himself for the execution of the sacred law.
Highlights of Phanthai Norasing Historical Park
The place where the tomb was built and the head was cut off is now the Phanthai Norasing Historical Park. The park offers a beautiful walking trail through the manicured mangrove forest, and you can admire the life-size statue of Phanthai Norasing in the pose of a temple cultivator. You can also see wrecks of the royal barge from 300 years ago.
Locals often donate boxing gloves and cockerel figurines, as Phantai loved Thai boxing and cockfighting.
Location & How to get there
The Phanthai Norasing Historical Park is located in Mueang Samut Sakhon, Samut Sakhon. By road, come via Rama II Road and turn into Soi Khang Wat Phanthai at kilometer stone no. 16-17. Direction signs are easily visible along the way from here.
Opening Hours
The Phanthai Norasing Historical Park is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM.