Thursday 13 May 2021, 04:58

There's always space for football in Bangkok

  • Thailand is the latest destination in our ongoing The Global Game series

  • Wat Prang Luang is an ancient Thai Buddhist temple in Nonthaburi province

  • The temple, built more than 650 years ago, has a football pitch on the property

Wat Prang Luang is an ancient Buddhist temple and the oldest in Nonthaburi province in central Thailand, just outside of Bangkok. And even here, at an archaeological site often visited by tourists from abroad and across the country itself, one can find space set aside for the beautiful game.

Built more than 650 years ago, the monastery is a contemplative setting in the midst of a city with a population over 11 million.

Wat Prang Luang

The temple was built during the reign of the Ayutthaya Kingdom, back when the capital was in Ayutthaya province.

Football is Thailand’s most followed sport, both in terms of viewership and participation. The city is full of spaces like in Wat Prang Luang, carved out specifically for concrete futsal courts.

Enjoy the images and posts below, showcasing just how much football is woven through everyday life there - and even when you make it out to the islands.

Wat Prang Luang