Imagine Talat Khwan. It was an important place on the Chao Phraya River. Today we are at Wat Bang Si Mueang. This temple has seen Nonthaburi evolve. Its story reflects the region’s transformations.
Wat Bang Si Mueang is in Mueang Nonthaburi District. This district is the capital district of Nonthaburi province. The district was once named Talat Khwan. Simon de la Loubère mentioned it in his book. He was a French envoy to Ayutthaya. He noted Talat Khwan’s importance.
The district’s administration shifted in 1917. Nonthaburi’s provincial administration moved here. It was then renamed Mueang Nonthaburi. From 1943 to 1946 Nonthaburi was briefly abolished. It split between Thonburi and Phra Nakhon Provinces. The district became part of Phra Nakhon. It was temporarily named Nonthaburi. After the province’s recreation, it reverted to Mueang Nonthaburi.
Mueang Nonthaburi is divided into subdistricts. Bang Si Mueang is one of them. It has five villages. The Bang Si Mueang Town Municipality covers the entire subdistrict.
The Thai Department of Corrections has its headquarters in Mueang Nonthaburi. It is located in the Suan Yai subdistrict. This detail adds an unexpected layer.
Mueang Nonthaburi is also a haven for certain birds. It is the last natural habitat. Here live Alexandrine parakeets and red-breasted parakeets. They reside in local temples. They can be found at Wat Suan Yai and Wat Utthayan. They also live at Wat Ampawan and Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat Worawihan.
Wat Bang Si Mueang stands amidst this history. It has witnessed these changes. It is more than just a temple. It is a silent observer. Its story echoes the past. It reflects Nonthaburi’s journey.