The ancient prehistoric civilization flourished in the western part of
Thailand dates back to several tens of thousand years. From
Kanchanaburi province especially in the basin of the two branches of the
Kwai Yai and Noi rivers, many archaeological objects have been
discovered.
One of the most important sites found in the Kwai Noi River basin is an
ancient city site named Muang Sing. The important discoveries made
near the ancient city remains include prehistoric human skeletons
together with metal tools, vessels and ornaments; brick bases of the
Dvaravati period architecture; and the laterite ruins of the13th
century.
This Muang Sing must have been an important outpost of Angkor as it was
mentioned in the Prasat Phra Khan inscription made during the reign of
King Jayavarman VII.
At present, Muang Sing on the bank of the Kwai Noi River is included in
Muang Sing sub-district. The vestiges of the ancient city comprise
several layers of rectangular walls and moats, having Prasat Muang Sing
in the middle. Other three lesser monuments in ruins are also
found in the area. From the main monument has been discovered a
number of Mahayana Buddhist images.
The three lesser monuments
could have been built in the same period as Prasat Muang
Sing in the 13th century, in the area which had been on the
important communication route that connected central
Thailand to Lower Burma.
Realizing
the importance of the site, the Fine Arts Department
initiated the renovation of Prasart Muang Sing in 1974.
The site then was a mound covered with heavily overgrown
vegetation. When the renovation work of the
monument was completed covering an area of around 640
rai of land, Muang Sing Historical Park had the official
opening presided over by H.R.H. Princess Mahachakri
Sirindhorn on April 3, 1987. Since then Muang Sing
Historical Park has become a proud cultural heritage
site, serving as an educational source as well as an
interesting tourist attraction in the region. In
the boundary of the historical park, there is a museum
which houses various artifacts and sculptures displayed
comprehensively for an easy understanding of the local
history.
Muang Sing Histrocial Park is
provided with various facilities. Excellent roads are
constructed to make it easily accessible and comfortable
accomodations are established on the bank of the Kwai Noi
River. Thus, Muang Sing Historical Park became an
important place to visit in the study of art and culture, as
well as to relax in a comfortable surroundings.
