Three Kings Monument

"The Three Kings Monument, located in the heart of Chiang Mai, stands as a tribute to the three kings who played a pivotal role in the founding of the city and the Lanna Kingdom. It commemorates King Phaya Mangrai, the founder of Chiang Mai and the Mangrai dynasty, along with King Phaya Ngam Muang of Phayao and King Phaya Ruang, also known as Phor Khun Ramkhamhaeng of the Sukhothai Kingdom. The monument was constructed in 1983 to honor their bond and significant contributions to Lanna history. The kings are depicted standing together, symbolizing their unity and the vow they made to remain allies. The oath, taken along the Ing River, involved drinking water mixed with the blood from their fingertips, binding them in friendship and mutual respect. The monument itself is made from bronze and black brass, standing at 2.7 meters tall, and was designed by Ajarn Kaimook Chuto. Situated at the heart of the city, it is considered the center of Chiang Mai, surrounded by a large open space known as "Khuang Three Kings." This area is frequently used for events and celebrations, and it attracts many visitors. The Three Kings are revered not only for their historical significance but also for their efforts to create a peaceful and prosperous kingdom that laid the foundation for modern Chiang Mai. The history of the Three Kings is steeped in collaboration and shared vision. Phaya Mangrai, after founding Chiang Rai, sought out his two friends to establish a new city near Doi Suthep and the Ping River. Together, they laid the foundation for what would become Chiang Mai, a central hub for the Lanna Kingdom. Their alliance, marked by the sacred ceremony of the city pillar, is a defining moment in the region’s history. The legacy of the Three Kings is celebrated annually, and their monument remains a vital symbol of Chiang Mai's cultural and historical heritage."