Thandwe history

Ancient Roots and Legendary Foundation

Thandwe (formerly known by the anglicized name Sandoway) is considered one of the oldest cities in the Rakhine region. The settlement's history is rooted in deep antiquity, and it is closely linked to the history of the Arakan Kingdom. According to local chronicles and legends, the city repeatedly served as a capital for rulers of early dynasties, playing a key role in the region's political life long before the arrival of Europeans.

Key Development Factors

The development of Thandwe as an important urban center was driven by several strategic factors:

• Geographical location: The city is located near the coast of the Bay of Bengal, making it the natural "sea gateway" of the region. The surrounding hilly terrain provided natural protection.
• Commercial importance: As an important seaport, Thandwe served as a transshipment point for goods, connecting Arakan with India and other Southeast Asian countries.
• Administrative status: In various historical periods, the city served as the residence of governors and kings, which contributed to the construction of fortifications and infrastructure development.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Since its foundation, Thandwe has developed as an important religious center of Buddhism. The city is famous for its ancient pagodas (the most significant being Nandaw, Sandaw, and Andaw), which are said to house relics of the Buddha. The early city's economy was built on a combination of maritime trade, fishing, and agriculture in the fertile valleys around the settlement. During the colonial period, thanks to its mild climate and picturesque landscapes, the city also began to acquire the status of a resort destination.

Major Historical Milestones

The history of Thandwe is rich in events that transformed it from an ancient settlement into the modern tourist gateway of Rakhine State. Here are the key stages of the city's development:

• Ancient period: The time of the legendary founding of the city and the construction of the three famous stupas — Nandaw, Sandaw, and Andaw, located on the surrounding hills. These events cemented Thandwe's status as an important spiritual center of the region.
• 1826: After the end of the First Anglo-Burmese War, the city came under the administration of the British colonial government. During this period, the anglicized name "Sandoway" became established.
• Late 19th — early 20th century: The British appreciated the region's mild climate and picturesque coast. Thandwe began to develop not only as an administrative center and garrison but also as a climatic resort ("sanatorium") for the recreation of officials.
• 1948: With the proclamation of Burma's independence (now Myanmar), the city became part of the new state, returning to its original name, Thandwe.
• Second half of the 20th century: The beginning of active development of the coastal zone. Nearby Ngapali Beach gained world fame, which gave a powerful impetus to the infrastructure development of Thandwe itself.
• Present time: The city functions as a key transport hub for the region. The local airport annually welcomes thousands of tourists heading to the coast of the Bay of Bengal, while the city itself retains the atmosphere of an authentic Myanmar province.

Stages of Urban and Cultural Development

The evolution of Thandwe is a journey from a sacred Buddhist center to a key logistical hub of Myanmar's tourism industry. The main milestones of the city's development reflect the changing of its roles in the life of the region:

• Sacred Urbanization (Ancient period): The construction of the three main pagodas (Nandaw, Sandaw, and Andaw) on the surrounding hills defined the urban planning axis of the settlement. These religious landmarks not only formed the city's cultural code but also consolidated its status as a pilgrimage center, around which residential quarters expanded.
• Colonial Administrative Reform (1826): Obtaining the status of an administrative center of a British district led to the appearance of new infrastructure. Colonial-style buildings, a prison, and garrison structures were built in the city, changing the architectural appearance and street layout by adding European elements to the traditional development.
• Establishment of a Resort Zone (Turn of the 19th–20th centuries): Thanks to the favorable climate, the city began to function as a "sanatorium" for British civil servants. This event laid the economic foundation for the region's future specialization in hospitality and visitor services.
• Transport Modernization (Mid-20th century): The development of Thandwe Airport was a turning point for the economy. The appearance of regular air service with Yangon turned the isolated coastal city into an accessible point on the map, opening the way for a mass flow of cargo and passengers.
• Tourism Boom (1990s – present days): The global popularization of Ngapali Beach radically transformed Thandwe's economy. The city became the main supply and logistics hub for the resort zone: markets were modernized, new service enterprises appeared, and employment shifted from the agrarian sector to the service and trade sphere.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of Thandwe represents an intertwining of ancient Buddhist traditions, the colonial heritage of the British Empire, and simple functional development characteristic of Myanmar's provincial towns. The urban landscape was formed over centuries, subject to both religious canons and the administrative needs of rulers.

Historical Eras and Styles

• Era of the Arakan Kingdoms (Ancient period — 18th century)
  Style: Traditional Buddhist architecture (Rakhine style)

  The earliest and most spiritually significant layer of architecture. The city's landmarks were religious structures located on high ground according to principles of sacred geography. This style is characterized by cone-shaped stupas (zedis), the use of brick and plaster, as well as decorative elements with Buddhist symbolism.

• British Rule (1826 — 1948)
  Style: Colonial style, Tropical utilitarianism

  The transformation of the city into the administrative center "Sandoway" introduced European features. The British built administrative buildings, a prison, and residences for officials, adapting Victorian architecture to the hot climate: high ceilings, wide verandas, louvered windows, and the use of teak wood combined with masonry.

• Post-colonial and modern period (from 1948)
  Style: Vernacular architecture, Functionalism

  Modern city development is predominantly utilitarian. Residential areas consist of traditional wooden and bamboo houses on stilts (protection against floods) and concrete low-rise shophouses in the center. Tourism development has added elements of modern hotel and transport infrastructure to the landscape.

Iconic Structures

Thandwe's appearance is defined by three historical pagodas located on surrounding hills, forming a visual triangle around the city:

• Sandaw Paya (Sandaw Pagoda): It is believed that a hair of the Buddha is enshrined here. The golden stupa serves as the main landmark and symbol of the city.
• Nandaw Paya (Nandaw Pagoda): Houses a rib of the Buddha and is an important pilgrimage center.
• Andaw Paya (Andaw Pagoda): The third peak of the sacred triangle, where, according to legend, a tooth of the Buddha is located.

In the city center, separate buildings from the colonial era have also been preserved (for example, the old prison building and some administrative structures), which contrast with the lively central market — the heart of modern city life.

Historical Figures and Legendary Rulers

The history of Thandwe is inextricably linked with the names of rulers who shaped the fate of the Arakan Kingdom, and legendary figures whose images have been preserved in local lore.

• Vasudeva
  Legendary founder of the city
  According to ancient chronicles, this mythical ruler is considered the founder of the settlement. The historical Sanskrit name of the city — Dwarawaddy — is associated with his name, highlighting the deep influence of Indian culture in the early stages of the region's development. For locals, he remains a symbol of the antiquity of their native land.
• King Min Bin
  Great ruler of the Mrauk U dynasty (1493–1554)
  Although the kingdom's capital was further north, Min Bin played a key role in the fate of Thandwe. Understanding the strategic importance of the port, he turned the city into a powerful southern garrison to defend against naval invasions. It was during his era that Thandwe finally secured its status as the administrative center of the coast.

Modern Pride: Cultural Figures

Thandwe and Rakhine State have gifted Myanmar with talented people whose achievements in science and art are recognized at the national level.

• Daw Kyan
  Distinguished historian and writer (1918–2019)
  A native of Thandwe who dedicated her life to preserving Myanmar's history. She became one of the most respected figures in national historical science, working for many years in the Myanmar History Commission. Her works on studying colonial archives and administrative records are considered an invaluable contribution to science, and her fellow countrymen honor her as the guardian of the region's memory.
• Nay Toe
  Film actor and philanthropist (born 1981)
  One of the most popular actors in modern Myanmar cinema, a native of Rakhine State (Manaung Island, located near Thandwe). Winner of multiple national academy awards, he is an idol for the youth and an example of success for the region's residents. His work helps popularize the state's culture throughout the country.