Phuket

Most geologists believe that the area known today as Phuket was once a cape that extended into the Andaman Sea. Geographical deformations gradually changed the cape's location and finally detached it from the mainland.

A famous Greek philosopher, Claudius Ptolemy, was the first person to mention the cape in writing, in his book written in the year 157. The cape was referred to locally as Jung Ceylon, and its location was reported to be between latitudes 6 N and 8 N (the present site of Phuket Island). Natives called the place “Cha Lang”, which has evolved into “Tha Lang” – the name of the main town to the north of the island.

As a perfect stopover sheltering traders from the monsoons, Jung Ceylon welcomed merchants from India, Persia, Arabia, Burma, China, and also from Siam. During the 16th century, Phuket became a popular trading port for tin, with Portuguese, Dutch, English and French traders flocking to the island. The demand for this commodity contributed to a previously unprecedented development of mining, with Chinese businessmen and miners migrating to the island to enjoy the business wealth of its thriving economy.

Apart from serving as a meeting point for traders from Europe, Central Asia and China, Phuket attracted ambitious immigrants, especially those from Portugal and China, to work in the tin mines. With such a colourful history, visitors can admire the Sino-Portuguese style of architecture in the city, especially those buildings located along the Thalang and Yaowarat Roads.

Thalang town was surrounded in 1785 by Burmese troops who had invaded the coastal area. Thalang was then under the leadership of Chan, the widow of the governor, and her sister Muk. Together they united the local residents to create a force that successfully fought off the Burmese and drove the invaders out of Phuket. It took the defenders of Phuket over 30 days of conflict to claim their victory. The heroic deeds of this action elevated the status of Chan and Muk and noble titles were granted to them. Chan received the title of Thao Thep Krasattri, and Muk the title of Thao Si Sunthon. To honor them, a monument was established in 1966 at the Tha Ruea Intersection, 12 kilometers to the north of Phuket City. Even today they are still highly respected by the residents of Phuket and passing motorists acknowledge them.

However, 24 years after the heroics of 1785, the Burmese again attacked and this time they succeeded in seizing Thalang, which caused many local esidents to flee to Phang-nga and Krabi. By 1825, some of them returned to re-establish a town and develop a rice farming community. At the same time the area to the south of the island (The Phuket City of today) was developed and the island became a major tin-trading centre.

After considerable development Phuket was elevated to town status in 1850 and it began to attract more immigrants from Thalang and nearby communities. By 1894, Phuket was promoted to be a Monthon administrative unit under the supervision of the central administrative body (located in Bangkok).

In 1902, Phraya Ratsada Korsimbi, a Sino-Thai businessman who was a major contributor to the development of the modern city of Phuket was appointed Governor of Phuket. Additionally he also helped to improve the welfare of local residents and set up the market system in the countryside. In 1916, Phuket became a province.

The tin mining industries importance to the local economy gradually declined as it failed to generate sufficient economic growth in Phuket. This was especially true after 1985 when the price of tin fell sharply to half its original value. Phuket however, with its wealth of natural resources, was able to emerge as a tourist destination of great potential. Today it has become the polished pearl of the Andaman Sea and is truly a destination that provides its visitors with memorable experiences.

The island's long history has shaped the distinctiveness of Phuket. The island of the present is a unique destination, with its diverse ethnic groups, culture, architectural influences, and fine cuisine. With approximately 35 percent of the population being Thai-Muslims, it is possible to see an equal number of Wats (Thai temples) located next to Mosques in many places.

DIAMOND CLIFF RESORT & SPA
284 Prabaramee Road, Kathu, Patong, Phuket 83150
Tel(66-76) 340-501-6, Fax: (66-76) 340-507, 290305