The province covers an area of 10,815 square kilometers featuring mountains, plains and forest in the east and a large fertile river basin. The Nan River, lifeline of the province, runs through the very heart of the city.
History
The city dates back to the 10th century when the Khmer ruled this region. Formerly, the city was named Song Khwae, meaning two rivers, as it was located between the Nan and the Khwae Noi River. The original location of Song Khwae city is at Wat Chulamani.
Around the year 1357, the King of Sukhothai, Phra Maha Thammaracha Lithai, decided to move the town to its present location. Since then, Phitsanulok served as a strategic border town ruled by members of the royal family.
During the Ayutthaya Period, the town played a larger role as a buffer town between Ayutthaya, the capital city, and the northern kingdom. Following administrative reform by King Borommatrailokkanat, it served as the capital city for 25 years. After that, the town was downgraded to a strategic border town.
It has played a major role in blocking the invasion of Burmese troops as well with King Naresuan the Great mobilizing troops from Phitsanulok to fight against the Burmese, who then ruled over the Siamese Kingdom, which regained independence in 1584.
...to be continued!
Edited by Ajarn Charlie
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