Saphan Khom
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 | This article may incorporate text from a large language model. (July 2025) |
Saphan Khom (Sakon Nakhon) สะพานขอม (สกลนคร) | |
|---|---|
| Crosses | Former seasonal stream |
| Locale | Sakon Nakhon Province, Thailand |
| Characteristics | |
| Design | Ancient Khmer stone bridge |
| Material | Laterite and sandstone |
| Total length | Unknown |
| Width | Unknown |
| History | |
| Construction end | Estimated 11th–13th century |
Saphan Khom (Thai: สะพานขอม) in Sakon Nakhon Province, northeastern Thailand, is a rare example of a surviving Khmer-period bridge. Constructed of laterite and sandstone, it is thought to have been part of an ancient road system built during the Angkorian period, likely between the 11th and 13th centuries.
History
[edit]The bridge is believed to have been built during the height of the Khmer Empire's influence in the Isan region of what is now northeastern Thailand. It likely served as part of a route connecting satellite settlements or religious sites associated with the empire's expansion. The region around modern-day Sakon Nakhon contains other remnants of Khmer-era activity, though Saphan Khom is the only known bridge of this type in the province.
Architecture
[edit]Saphan Khom is constructed from blocks of laterite and sandstone, laid out to form a raised crossing over what was once a natural seasonal stream or floodplain. The design is consistent with known Khmer engineering methods, using simple corbel arches and stone piers. Some sections remain intact, while others have collapsed due to erosion and time.
Conservation
[edit]Although in partial ruin, the bridge has been stabilized and signposted by local authorities. It is considered an important cultural and archaeological landmark in the province. Interpretive signs have been added to aid visitors and raise awareness of Khmer heritage in the region.
Location and access
[edit]The bridge is located in Ban Tha Rae Subdistrict, not far from Sakon Nakhon city. It can be reached by car, and the site is open to the public year-round. The nearby village features a mix of Lao and Catholic cultural heritage, making it a unique destination for heritage tourism.
References
[edit]- My Sakon Nakhon, "Khmer Bridge Saphan Khom," *mysakonnakhon.com*, retrieved July 2025.
- TripAdvisor, "Saphan Khom or Sapan Hin Reviews," *TripAdvisor.com*, retrieved July 2025.
- Tim Kingdom, "Sapan Khom – Khmer Bridge," *timsthailand.com*, retrieved July 2025.
- Ministry of Culture Thailand, "Cultural Heritage – Saphan Khom Bridge," *m-culture.in.th*, retrieved July 2025.