Nakhon Pathom

Churches in Nakhon Pathom

Nakhon Pathom Information

Only 86km to the west of Bangkok, lies the old city of Nakhon Pathom. Once the centre of the Dvaravati Kingdom, the city is one of the oldest in Thailand and derives its name from the Pali, Nagara Pathama, meaning 'First City'. .The origins of the city are believed to date back to as long ago as 3 BC, when the Indian Emperor Asoka sent two missionaries, Sona and Uttara, to the area to spread the teachings of Buddhism amongst the populace..

History

The city flourished during its years as part of the Dvaravati Kingdom, between 6AD-11AD. However at the beginning of the 11th century, during the demise of the Dvaravati, the city was conquered by the Khmers under the leadership of King Suryavarman I. Not long after the Khmers had taken control of the city it was destroyed by the Burmese of Pagan in 1057. During the 12th century the city then became abandoned until being resettled in the late 19th century..

In 1870, after the long restoration of the Phra Pathom Chedi, the population at the nearby Nakhon Chaisi moved in to the township of Nakhon Pathom. Thus once again, after its long abandonment, this ancient city was to prosper again..The massive Phra Pathom Chedi is the city's major attraction. The bell-shaped structure dominates the city centre and has dominated its religious and cultural past. Today the famous chedi is the only remnants of its colourful history, though there are further attractions from the time of King Rama VI.

Ministry Opportunities in Nakhon Pathom

• Church planters
• English teachers
• Sports Ministry (especially Soccer and Volleyball)