Wang Chan Area or Chan Royal Palace Area is another popular area in Phitsanulok municipality. It lies on the west side of the Nan River opposite Wat Yai. This area consists of a cluster of ancient sites and key tourist attractions of the city along Wang Chan Road and Theparak Road. To get here from Wat Yai, first cross the Naresuan Bridge going west. At the right foot of the bridge, turn right and you will be on the road leading back to the former palace area. The compound has several features:
The shrine is a three-sided Thai pavilion. This used to be the shrine of the school that was once on the site of the Chan Palace ruins. The statue of King Naresuan The Great sits in a life size posture, pouring water as a sign of declaration of independence from Burma. His Majesty King Bhumiphol and Queen Sirikit came to open this shrine and the statue on 25 January 1962. Therefore, the annual festival for the shrine takes place on the 25th of January each year.
To enjoy the Chan Palace neighborhood, the local tram is highly recommended for its low fares and automatic narrations on each site. This area offers rich culture and great reminders of Thai history. The old palace, where kings once stayed, is considered the foundation of freedom and Thainess.
The King Naresuan Shrine and Wang Chan Palace ruin is located across the Nan River from Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, on what used to be the grounds of a large school. The school was demolished so that the foundations of the old Wang Chan Palace can be slowly uncovered and studied.
King Naresuan was born here in 1555 before being carted off to Burma when Phitsanulok temporarily fell into enemy hands. Eventually he returned to his homeland and, as the story goes, led his people to freedom. A small shrine contains a life-size statue of the King pouring water out of a cup to symbolise his declaration of independence from Burma. This shrine is very popular with locals, who burn incense and leave offerings at the foot of the statue.
There's also a small museum here with pictures and legends of the King's life. Some English captions are available, so it's worth a browse. At time of writing, the local government is undertaking a project to expand the museum (along with the site's tourism appeal).