Phrae City Wall is located within Phrae Municipality, Nai Wiang Subdistrict, Mueang Phrae District. Although the exact construction date is unknown, historical evidence suggests the wall is over 1,100 years old, indicating that it predates the 14th Buddhist century.

A key historical reference appears in the chronicles of Wat Luang, which record that in 1374 BE, during the reign of Thao Pha Hu Singh, son of Pho Khun Luang Phon, extensive renovations were ordered. Khun Phra Witsanu Wangchai was appointed to oversee the restoration of Wat Luang, including expanding the temple boundary to connect with the city wall and reinforcing the wall with brickwork to protect the city from flooding by the Yom River. A grand celebration lasting five days and five nights followed. This record confirms that Phrae City Wall had already existed and was later strengthened.

Urban Layout and Physical Characteristics
The city wall consists of a single defensive layer, approximately 7 meters high with a base width_ of about 15 meters, extending around the city for roughly 4,000 meters. The city plan is oval, resembling a gourd or conch shell, a distinctive feature compared to the rectangular layouts typical of other northern ancient cities.

Internally, the wall is constructed from large ancient bricks and stacked stones, while externally it appears as an earthen embankment, showcasing traditional defensive engineering techniques.

City Gates and Defense System
Historically, Phrae City Wall had four main gates:

• Pratu Mai (North Gate)

• Pratu Chai (East Gate)

• Pratu Man (South Gate)

• Pratu Sri Chum (West Gate)

Between Pratu Sri Chum and Pratu Mai, there was a smaller gate known as Pratu Liang Ma (Horse Gate), used for taking livestock outside the city. Each gate was equipped with defensive bastions, reflecting the city’s strong fortification system.

Moat and Inner Ring Road
Outside the wall lies a moat approximately 20 meters wide, serving as both a defensive barrier and a water management system. Inside the wall runs a ring road encircling the old town; in some sections—particularly on the western side between Sri Chum Road and Pratu Mai—the road is built directly atop the wall embankment.

Locals traditionally call the moat “Khue Mueang” or “Nam Khue”, and refer to the city wall as “Mek”, reflecting the deep cultural connection between the community and the ancient city.

Present-Day Evidence
Today, large portions of Phrae City Wall remain clearly visible and relatively well preserved. The wall continues to play an important role in protecting the inner city from flooding by the Yom River, despite some sections having been converted into roads or residential areas.

• By Car: Visitors can drive along Rop Muang Road, which follows most sections of the city wall. Easily recognizable landmarks include areas near the Phrae City Pillar Shrine and Pratu Chai Gate.

• Best Time to Visit: 4:30–6:00 PM for cooler weather and beautiful lighting

• Evening Market: A local night market near Pratu Chai Gate offers authentic Phrae cuisine

• Highlight Spot: Pratu Chai provides the clearest view of preserved gate structures

• Atmosphere: Ideal for leisurely walks and cultural immersion

Admission Fee:

• Free admission

Opening Hours:

• Open 24 hours (Daytime to early evening is recommended for safety and the best scenery)