What is the longest capital city name in the world?

What is the longest capital city name in the world?
Posted on 20-07-2023

What is the longest capital city name in the world?

The longest capital city name in the world is "Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit." This mouthful of a name is commonly shortened to "Krung Thep" or "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon" and refers to the capital city of Thailand, known in English as Bangkok.

1. Origin of the Name "Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit":

The origin of the long name can be traced back to the foundation of the city of Bangkok in the late 18th century. The name is a compilation of several descriptive Pali and Sanskrit words that were chosen to embody the greatness and majesty of the city.

The full name translates to "The city of angels, the great city, the residence of the Emerald Buddha, the impregnable city (of Ayutthaya) of God Indra, the grand capital of the world endowed with nine precious gems, the happy city, abounding in an enormous royal palace that resembles the heavenly abode where reigns the reincarnated god, a city given by Indra and built by Vishnukarn."

2. The Significance of Pali and Sanskrit in the Name:

Pali and Sanskrit are ancient languages that have had significant historical and cultural influence in Thailand. They are languages in which many sacred texts, including Buddhist scriptures, are written. The inclusion of Pali and Sanskrit words in the name of the capital city reflects Thailand's deep-rooted Buddhist and cultural heritage.

3. Official Shortened Name:

While the full name is quite impressive in its complexity, it is not commonly used in day-to-day conversation or official documentation. Instead, the city is referred to by its shortened names, "Krung Thep" or "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon," which means "City of Angels" or "Great City of Angels."

4. The Dual Naming of Bangkok:

Bangkok is unique in that it is one of the few cities in the world with both a Thai name and an English name. In Thai, the capital city is known as "Krung Thep," whereas the English name "Bangkok" is an anglicized version of the city's full Thai name.

5. The Vibrant and Bustling Metropolis:

Bangkok, regardless of its long official name, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that serves as the economic, cultural, and political heart of Thailand. The city is known for its bustling markets, vibrant street life, stunning temples, delicious street food, and bustling nightlife.

6. Conclusion:

The longest capital city name in the world, "Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Ayuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit," is a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Thailand. The name reflects the greatness and majesty of the city of Bangkok, known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and bustling streets. Although the full name is rarely used in everyday communication, it remains an important symbol of the city's deep-rooted traditions and heritage. Bangkok, regardless of its long official name, continues to captivate visitors from around the world with its unique charm, making it a popular destination for travelers and a source of pride for the Thai people.

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