The Study of Spatial Attributes of the Wat Ket - Fah Ham - San Pa Koi Connected Area, Chiang Mai, to Identity Characteristics of the Cultural Landscape

Abstract

This research article aims to explore the spatial components of the Wat Ket, Fah Ham, and San Pa Koi connected areas in Chiang Mai and analyze their roles in defining the identity of the cultural landscape. The research problem is to investigate how exploring spatial components that define the cultural landscape identity in the study area will yield results and how the roles and importance can be identified. The researcher uses qualitative research methods focused on field surveys, cultural landscape surveys, and unstructured interviews as tools for data collection. The sample groups include four selected communities within the district and a group of 44 informants. Subsequently, physical data analysis and interview information are used and presented through descriptions, maps, and illustrations. The research findings indicate that the spatial components defining the cultural landscape identity within the study area can be categorized into nine groups, including open spaces for recreation in the Baan San Pa Khoi community, open spaces along the Ping River near Nawarat Bridge, commercial areas in the San Pa Khoi Market, commercial areas on Kaew Nawarat Road, educational and hospital areas, commercial areas on Charoen Mueang Road, commercial areas on Bumrungrad Road, commercial areas along the Ping River in the area of the 1st Church, Chiang Mai (old building), commercial areas along the Ping River in the Wat Ket area, and the McCormick Hospital area. In terms of analyzing the roles in defining the identity of the cultural landscape, they can be categorized into five roles, including historical and cultural areas, commerce and economic activity areas, architecture and community areas, religious and spiritual areas, and public areas.