Sukhothai

Today there will be a bit less text, but more pictures.
Now to the historical part:
Sukhothai, the name means “Dawn of Happiness”
Here, in the 13th century, the first large kingdom of the Thai began, and to this day, one can feel this special sense of origin, history, and tranquility.
Historical Park Sukhothai (Sources: Wikipedia and the official site)

The Historical Park Sukhothai is located about 13 km west of the modern city and contains the ruins of the old capital. Over 200 temple and palace remains spread across a vast area, surrounded by ancient moats, lotus ponds, and shady trees.
Particularly impressive is Wat Mahathat, the centerpiece of the complex. Here stand countless chedis and Buddha statues that are said to shine golden in the morning sun (you know, it’s not our time). Almost even more impressive is Wat Si Chum with its gigantic, stone-encased Buddha statue, whose hand is so large that one almost wants to touch it in reverence.
In the 13th and 14th centuries, Sukhothai was the political, cultural, and spiritual center of the country. King Ramkhamhaeng the Great is said to have not only created the first Thai writing system here, but also laid many cultural foundations that continue to shape Thailand today.
In 1991, the city, along with neighboring historical sites, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site - rightly so. Walking through the ancient walls, one can almost hear the echo of history. And although the park is quite extensive, everything feels peaceful and light.
A bicycle, by the way, is the best way to explore the complex - including the breeze.

Loy Krathong - the Festival of Lights at the Heart of History (Sources: Wikipedia and the official site)

If one is lucky (or good at planning), one experiences Sukhothai in November during the Loy Krathong Festival. It is considered one of the most beautiful festivals in Thailand - and in Sukhothai even regarded as the origin of this custom.
The legend states that during the time of King Ramkhamhaeng, small boats adorned with flowers and candles - the so-called krathongs - were set on the ponds in honor of the water goddess Mae Khongkha.
Today, it is a spectacular festival where thousands of lights float over the water while lanterns rise into the night sky.
In the Historical Park, the entire complex transforms into a sea of lights: ancient temples in the warm glow of candles, colorful lanterns in the trees, and a large light and sound show that tells the story of Sukhothai. There is also music, dance, traditional clothing, and, of course, plenty of food.

What memories do I take away from Sukhothai:
Warmhouse Giant Crab Spider (Heteropoda venatoria) -> no need to experience that again. It was a bit too big for the bathroom.
One Cockroach -> I named her Wilma. She was a quiet companion.
Many Frogs -> at night.
A Snake.
Presumably monkeys on the roof. At night.
(Egg says it was some other animal. It rustled and scuffled for a short while, then it disappeared again.) (It lasted longer than a short while, but if you have a healthy sleep)
And a lot of water.
Not so bad after all, but still not my favorite and a bit too much nature for my taste, especially in the bathroom.