Global Treasures: Sukhothai

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

---

Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1216

UPC: 879061008153

---

Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Sukhothai, "Dawn Of Happiness," is the name of the first capital of Thailand, and it once marked the beginning of a new epoch. During the course of its 120-year flowering period, several of the city's impressive buildings were created, such as the magnificent Wat Mahathat Temple.

Beyond the old city walls is the fascinating Wat Si Chum Temple, which owes its national fame to the huge seated Buddha sculpture of Phra Atchana. It is more than 11 metres high and is one of the largest and most imposing Buddha statues in Thailand.

Picturesque, yet almost sad, the century-old ruins seem to be reflected within the water of the nearby moats, canals and ponds, yearning for a bygone time when the area was full of buildings that in turn were full of life. But despite its continuing decay, Sukhothai is still a truly magical experience.