Abstract:
The objectives of the research are 1) to study on the transformation of urban structure and physical elements of Nan city from the past to present, 2) to study the factors that affect the transformation of urban structure and physical elements of Nan city and 3) to suggest policies in order to maintain the elements of Nan city in cultural, social and economic contexts among the transformation of time. The methods to study the transformation of urban structure and physical elements of Nan city are; to study pattern, from, land use, transportation and building pattern. The research finds out that Nan city during Mueang Pua and Wiang Phu Phiang Chae Haeng period had similar structure and physical elements. These are 1) the city formation is on the high land 2) the urban form is oval influenced by the topography 3) there is a relic pagoda on the hill. This is the prototype city center pattern in Kok river watershed. During Wiang Tai period, Nan city was located near the basin and its structure was influenced by Dvaravati culture.Thus, Nan city shape was a free form and almost round. Later, Nan city was colonized by the Kingdom of Lanna. Therefore, the influence of Elements of Lanna pattern can be seen in Nan city. Those are Kuang Muang (public space), Ming Muang (city pillar) and Lanna architecture in many magnificent temples. During Wiang Dong Phranet period, Nan city was influenced by Chieng Mai and technology so its shape was a rectangular form. During Wiang Nan period around 2400B.E., Nan city was developed to be a Lanna city. The elements of the city consist of Ho-kham (palace), Kuang Muang (public space), Ming Muang (city pillar), Sadue Muang (center city), Pra-Tat in the center city (a relic of the Buddha) and many important temples which can be found now. During Nan municipality period, the city transformation occurred due to the political reform. Nan city turned to be the center of administration and commerce of the province. The transformation of urban structure and physical elements were obviously occurred especially the landuse was not classified by social classes. The commercial area expanded occurred in the city. The settlement form changed from a cluster to be a linear pattern. Also some elements of city such as city wall, city gate and fort lose their importance and were demolished. Anyway, temples, Kuang Muang, Ming Muang and Sadue Muang are still exist, even though it has been influenced by globalization. According to the development policy, it is suggested that the historical tourism should be promoted together with the maintainance of the identity of the old town.