The country that we now refer to as Thailand only achieved its present form in the nineteenth centry. Before that, there flourished Lanna (meaning 'One million rice fields'), a region whose documented history began in the eighth century; in 1931 it was incorporated into Siam and ceased to exist as a political entity, but its cultural influence is far reaching.
Superbly illutrated throughout, Michael Freeman's book show how the Lanna culture remains as distinctive as ever. What the modern-day visitor sees owes its existence to an incredible number of influences, for the people of Lanna included the Tai Yuan, the Tai Lu, the Shan, the Mon and the Siames. How they settled in the Lanna valleys, and the subsequent development of the region, can be traced in the art and architecture that still survive today. Taking the region valley by valley, the author explains how the principal cities and sites developed, but most importantly, he provides a fascinating guide to 'Thailand's northern kingdom' as it is nowadays--including houses, temples, its art and its people--all accompanied by stunning photography.
Michael Freeman has travelled in Nothern Thailand extensively for over 20 years, and as photographer and writer has an in-depth knowledge of the region. Perfect for reader and traveller alike, this book brings Lanna's history as well as its present vividly to life.
- Art and Culture
- Ping Valley
- Wang Valley
- Yom Valley
- Nan Valley
- Kok and Ing Valleys
- Pai and Yuam Valleys