From Langkasuka to Pattani’s Old Town: An Analysis of the Image of the City for Guiding Conservation and Development in a Multicultural Context

Abstract

Pattani is a historically and culturally significant region with deep roots in ancient civilizations that once thrived on the Malay Peninsula, including Langkasuka, Tambralinga, and Srivijaya. Over the centuries, Pattani has experienced extensive historical, social, and morphological transformations, shaping its unique identity as a multicultural society. Today, Pattani is home to a diverse population comprising Thai Buddhists, Thai Chinese, and Thai Muslims, who coexist and contribute to the area's distinctive cultural fabric. The Old Town of Pattani stands as a testament to the harmonious blending of these diverse traditions and way of life, showcasing a rich and varied cultural amalgamation.

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, the Old Town of Pattani was officially designated as a historic city on March 10, 2015. This certification was issued by the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP), which acts as the Secretariat for the Committee for the Conservation and Development of Rattanakosin and Historic Towns. The designated historic area spans approximately 2.35 square kilometers and is divided into a core area and surrounding zones. Within this historic district, the Old Town serves as a hub of ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity. The unique cultural identity of this area is reflected not only in its architecture but also in the daily interactions and communal activities of its residents, revealing a tangible blend of traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles.

Despite its historical and cultural significance, the Old Town of Pattani has experienced a decline in vibrancy in recent years. Changes in local lifestyles and activities, urban expansion, and transportation patterns have led to the abandonment of many historic buildings. Some structures have been repurposed as swiftlet houses, while others have been demolished and replaced with commercial buildings. These changes pose a significant risk to the preservation of the area's historical significance and cultural identity.

This study aims to analyze and identify the spatial components of Pattani's city image based on Kevin Lynch's urban imagery framework, which includes edges, paths, nodes, districts, and landmarks. The research methodology involves a survey focusing on two main areas: (1) the physical characteristics and spatial context of the area, including neighborhood identity, activities, atmosphere, and circulation, and (2) the buildings in terms of their location, form, function, and utilization. The findings will be compared with relevant literature covering the history of Pattani's Old Town, its spatial and architectural features, urban imagery, identity, and multicultural society.

The study reveals that all five components of urban imagery are identifiable in the Old Town. Notable features include the Pattani River, an intricate system of canals and roads, various public spaces, and prominent cultural landmarks such as temples, mosques, shrines, and historic bridges. The core area comprises three principal ethnic communities: Thai Buddhists, Thai Chinese, and Thai Muslims. The surrounding areas include newly developed economic zones and the extended settlements of the Thai Chinese (in the upper section) and Thai Muslims (in the lower section).

These findings underscore the importance of informed urban planning, conservation strategies, and efforts to sustain Pattani's unique cultural and historical identity within a peaceful, multicultural framework. Scholars, urban planners, and cultural heritage professionals play crucial roles in this endeavor.