About Sunthorn Phu Memorial
The Sunthorn Phu Memorial is a literary memorial park in Kram Subdistrict, Klaeng District, Rayong Province, dedicated to Sunthorn Phu (1786-1855), Thailand's renowned poet of the early Rattanakosin period. Established in 1970 on his father's native land, the park features a central statue of the poet surrounded by sculptures of characters from his epic Phra Aphai Mani and other works, set within landscaped gardens commemorating his literary legacy.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect an open-air park with a central bronze statue of Sunthorn Phu surrounded by life-size sculptures of characters from his literary works, including Phra Aphai Mani, the mermaid, and other figures. The site includes landscaped gardens, shaded walkways, informational displays about the poet's life and works, and small souvenir and food stalls near the entrance. The area is quiet and suitable for walking, photography and learning about Thai literature.
Key highlights
- 01
Central statue of Sunthorn Phu, Thailand's celebrated Rattanakosin-era poet
- 02
Sculptures of characters from Phra Aphai Mani including Phra Aphai Mani, Nang Phisuea Samut (ogress) and the mermaid
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Sculptures of characters from other Sunthorn Phu works
- 04
Landscaped memorial park on the poet's paternal homeland
- 05
Annual Sunthorn Phu Day commemoration on 26 June
History of Sunthorn Phu Memorial
Dedicated to Sunthorn Phu (1786-1855), the most famous poet of Thailand's early Rattanakosin period who served in the royal courts of Rama II and Rama III. The memorial was established in 1970 on land believed to be his father's hometown in Kram, Klaeng, to honor his literary contributions. Sunthorn Phu was later recognized by UNESCO in 1986 as a great world poet on the 200th anniversary of his birth. The park was inaugurated on 25 May 1970 and features sculptures added to depict his major works.
Culture & Context
The memorial is a cultural landmark honoring Thailand's national poet and his epic Phra Aphai Mani, which remains central to Thai literature and education. It serves as a place of literary pilgrimage, hosts the annual Sunthorn Phu Day on 26 June with cultural performances and recitations, and preserves characters and stories that are widely known in Thai folklore and popular culture.