Roi Et history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the city of Roi Et is rooted in deep antiquity, back to when the Dvaravati civilization flourished on these lands. Initially, the settlement was named Saket Nakhon and was a major fortified center.

The name "Roi Et" translates as "one hundred and one." There is a legend that in the past, the city was so powerful that it ruled over 101 vassal cities and had just as many gates. However, historians tend to believe that this number was used more as a metaphor for greatness and prosperity rather than an exact statistical fact. In the 18th century, the city was resettled and officially restored, receiving a new impulse for development.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of the ancient settlement into an important administrative center of Thailand was driven by several reasons:

• Geography: Its location in the center of the Khorat Plateau, in the Chi River basin, provided fertile lands for agriculture and access to waterways.
• Migration: During the Thonburi Kingdom period, people from Laos (specifically from Champasak) actively migrated here, which led to population growth and the strengthening of the city's political status.
• Strategic Importance: The city served as a significant buffer and administrative outpost controlling the northeastern territories.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

The culture of early Roi Et was formed under the strong influence of Laotian traditions and Buddhism. The city was famous for its artisans, especially in the field of weaving: the production of high-quality silk and cotton with unique *mut-mee* patterns was the foundation of local trade.

The economy was based on rice farming, facilitated by the creation of artificial reservoirs. Phalanchai Lake, located in the center of the city, historically played the role of not only a water source but also a sacred center of social life.

Major Historical Milestones

The city's history is rich in events reflecting its journey from an ancient fortification to a modern administrative center. Below is a chronology of key moments in the development of Roi Et.

• Dvaravati Period (6th–11th centuries): An ancient settlement called Saket Nakhon exists on the site of the modern city, surrounded by moats and walls.
• 1713: The beginning of active settlement of the territory by migrants from the Laotian Kingdom of Champasak, laying the foundations for a new community.
• 1775: King Taksin the Great officially grants the settlement city status and appoints the first governor.
• 1908: During the administrative reforms of King Rama V, Monthon Roi Et—a large administrative circle—is created.
• 1926: Monthon Roi Et is disbanded, and its territories are temporarily included in the Nakhon Ratchasima circle.
• 1933: After Thailand transitions to a constitutional monarchy and the monthon system is abolished, the city becomes the capital of the province of the same name.
• 1979: Massive reconstruction of Phalanchai Lake is completed, transforming it into the main park and recreation spot for citizens.
• 1980s: Construction of the giant standing Buddha statue at Wat Burapha Phiram, one of the tallest in the country.
• 2020: Opening of the 101-meter observation tower, Roi Et Tower ("Wot"), becoming the new architectural symbol of the city.

Stages of City Transformation

The development of Roi Et is a journey from a traditional settlement to a modern, dynamic center of the northeastern region. Key changes in the city's appearance and economy are linked to the following strategic milestones:

• Phalanchai Lake Improvement (1979): Large-scale reconstruction turned a swampy area in the city center into a scenic lake with an island park. This event was a turning point in urban planning, giving residents a primary public space for relaxation and festivals, around which all city life is centered today.
• Construction of the Big Buddha Statue: Building one of the tallest Buddha statues at Wat Burapha Phiram secured the city's status as an important spiritual center. This event put the city on the tourist map of Thailand, attracting thousands of pilgrims and stimulating the service sector.
• Opening of Roi Et Airport (1998): The launch of a civil airport radically improved the province's transport accessibility. Regular air service with Bangkok gave a powerful boost to local business, simplified logistics, and opened the region to mass tourism.
• International Recognition of "Hom Mali" Rice: The registration of Jasmine rice from the Thung Kula Ronghai plains as a product with Protected Geographical Indication (GI) became a driver for the agrarian economy. This increased the region's export potential and the income of the local population.
• Development of the University Cluster: The establishment of Roi Et Rajabhat University as a major educational institution turned the city into a magnet for youth. The influx of students revitalized the urban environment, contributing to the opening of modern cafes, co-working spaces, and the development of youth culture.
• Construction of the "Wot" Tower (Roi Et Tower, 2020): The opening of a 101-meter observation tower in the shape of a traditional musical instrument completed the formation of the modern architectural look. The object became not just a new landmark, but also a symbol of the city's economic modernization.

Urban Planning Features

The layout of the city of Roi Et is unique for the region and dictated by its historical past. At the core of the urban structure lies a system of ancient moats, which have been transformed over time. Today, the nucleus and heart of the city is Phalanchai Lake. Development radiates from this body of water, combining green recreational zones with dense residential and commercial quarters, creating the feeling of a garden city.

Architectural Styles and Eras

The appearance of the city represents a harmonious blend of ancient Buddhist traditions and modern trends characteristic of the developing northeast of Thailand.

• Lan Xang and Isan Style (18th–19th centuries): Traditional temple architecture reflecting close cultural ties with Laos. This style is characterized by multi-tiered curved roofs of "bots" (ordination halls), the use of teak wood, and unique wall murals. A vivid example is the temple Wat Klang Ming Mueang, where elements of the late Ayutthaya era, adapted to local tastes, can be traced in the architecture.
• Utilitarian Modernism (Mid to Late 20th century): A period of active urbanization when the city was built up with functional concrete buildings—shophouses. At the same time, religious monumentalism developed: the use of reinforced concrete allowed for the creation of massive structures, such as the temple Wat Burapha Phiram. Here, the building itself serves as a pedestal for a giant Buddha statue, which was a bold engineering solution for its time.
• Modern Symbolism and Postmodernism (21st century): The newest milestone in urban planning, aimed at creating a recognizable tourism brand. The dominant feature of this style is the Roi Et Tower (Hor Wot). This sculpture-building in the shape of the traditional "Wot" musical instrument demonstrates a departure from typical development towards architectural metaphor and high-tech design.

Prominent Figures of Roi Et

The city of Roi Et and the province of the same name have become the birthplace of many talented individuals who have brought fame to this region far beyond the country's borders. From historical rulers to modern pop stars and athletes, these figures have made a significant contribution to the development of the culture and image of the northeastern region, of which Thailand is proud.

• Phra Khattiyawongsa (Thon)
  First Governor of the City (18th century)
  A historical figure who stood at the origins of the modern city. In 1775, King Taksin the Great appointed him the first ruler of the restored settlement. Thon played a key role in uniting local communities, strengthening city walls, and establishing administrative management during the formative era of the Thonburi Kingdom.
• Luang Pu Si Manidho (Phra Thep Visuthi Mongkhon)
  Buddhist Monk and Educator (1924–2020)
  The revered abbot of Wat Pa Kung temple, known for his strictness in observing monastic discipline and his immense contribution to the spiritual development of the region. It was thanks to his initiative that a unique sandstone pagoda, inspired by Indonesia's Borobudur, was built in Roi Et, becoming an important center of pilgrimage.
• Jintara Poonlarp
  Singer, "Queen of Mor Lam" (born 1969)
  A native of the Kaset Wisai district who became one of the most famous performers in the Luk Thung and Mor Lam genres. Over her career, she has released dozens of albums and popularized traditional Isan music at an international level, even collaborating with Western pop stars. She is a cultural icon of the province.
• Sam-A Gaiyanghadao
  Legend of Thai Boxing (born 1983)
  An outstanding Muay Thai fighter from the Nong Phok district. A multiple-time champion of Lumpinee Stadium, and world champion under WBC and ONE Championship versions. His technical fighting style and athletic longevity have made him a role model for young athletes around the world.
• Rueangrit Siriphanit (Ritz)
  Singer, Actor, and Doctor (born 1990)
  A popular performer who gained fame after participating in "The Star" talent show. Ritz successfully combines a career in show business with medical practice, being a graduate of the Faculty of Medicine at Khon Kaen University. He represents the image of a modern, successful native of Roi Et.