Thailand

The Governor's Residence of Phatthalung is a magnificent monument of undeniable beauty. It is located along Aphai Borirak Road, Moo 4, in Tambon Lam Pam district, near Wat Wang. The Phatthalung Governors Residence comprises two grand palaces within its compound. One is named "Wang Kao" (the old palace), and the other is known as "Wang Mai" (the new palace). Upon entering, visitors are immediately captivated by this historic government site, making it an unquestionable attraction for travelers to Phatthalung.

History

Originally, the Governor's Residence of Phatthalung served as both a governmental site and the residence of the city lord. It was the home of Governor Phraya Apai Borirak (Noi Chantharotchanawong). The exact year of the palace's construction is difficult to determine. Initially considered the Wang Kao (old palace), it consisted of three large adjacent Thai-style apartments. After the provincial governor, Phraya Apai Borirak, passed away in 1888, the palace became the property of Mrs. Praphai Mutamara, daughter of Luang Si Worachat. The new palace (or Wang Mai) was constructed in 1889 by Phraya Aphai Borirak (Net Chantharotchawong), son of Phraya Phatthalung.

Wang Kao (Old Palace)

The Wang Kao, or old palace, was built by Governor Phraya Aphai Borirak (Noi), who governed Phatthalung from 1869 to 1888. The palace served as both his administrative office and residence. After retiring in 1888 due to advanced age, he was appointed as a royal advisor by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), with the title "Phraya Worawutthi Waiyawat Lungkawisai Issarasak Pithak Ratchakit Naritsorn Ratchapakdee Piriyapahaha." He lived in Wang Kao until his death in 1903. The old palace was then passed on to his son, who spent more than 30 years in office; Luang Siworawat passed away in 1937; and Wang Kao was inherited by his daughters. Luang Siworawat (Phin Chantharotchawong), who continued the provincial governor's work. After more than 30 years in office, Luang Siworawat passed away in 1937, and Wang Kao was inherited by his daughters.

The architecture of Wang Kao consists of three interconnected Thai-style houses. The first two houses serve as bedrooms with an entrance hall in front, while the third house, known as "Mae Than," is a long room covering the hall of the first two houses. The roofs of these three houses are aligned perpendicular to the direction of the sun, facing west and with their backs to the east. They were constructed using traditional Thai craftsmanship, employing wooden pegs rather than nails, which enhances their durability.

Wang Mai (New Palace)

The new palace, also known as Wang Mai, was built by Phraya Aphai Borirak (Net Chantharotchawong), governor of Phatthalung, in 1889. Wang Mai was erected directly behind the old palace (Wang Kao). This palace comprises five typical Thai houses with elevated floors. These beautiful structures surround the central sand hall with brick edges, which helps maintain the sand level higher than the normal ground level.

The main residence consists of two twin houses with multiple bedrooms, which once served as the residence for Phraya Aphai Borirak's entire family. Under the governor's bedroom floor lies a concealed secret tunnel hidden beneath a board. This tunnel served as an escape route leading to the edge of the Lampam Canal River in case of emergencies. A magnificent entrance hall is located just in front of the governor's bedroom, likely used as an office. Inside the central sand hall stands a pink apple tree enclosed within a thick, round brick fence that also functions as a bench. The other three houses of similar style belonged to the governor's wife and son, Phraya Aphai Borirak.

Today

Formerly a governmental site and the residence of the Governor of Phatthalung, this splendid palace has been renovated by the Department of Fine Arts and is now open to the public. Its official reopening took place in 1993.

The "Phatthalung Governors Residence" combines traditional Southern and Central Thai architectural styles. Supported by round columns and elevated above ground level, it primarily functions as an administrative workspace and ceremonial venue. The residence comprises three traditional Thai houses, identical and placed side by side but elevated. The first two houses have been converted into bedrooms, while directly in front of these identical houses stands a wooden barn that formerly served as a rice granary.

Exploring every corner of this magnificent palace promises an unforgettable experience. As a visitor, you will not only discover the histories of the successive governors but also learn about their lineages in great detail.

How to get there

To visit the Governor's Residence of Phatthalung, simply follow Aphai Borirak Road, Moo 4, Lampam Subdistrict, Mueang Phatthalung District, Phatthalung, which is about 6 kilometers from the town hall. You may even opt for a tuk-tuk ride to explore the town before reaching your destination.