The actual site of the Arts & Cultural Center is on the original "navel of the city". On any map of the old city, you will find it almost smack-dab-in-the-middle of the square. During the height of the Lanna Kingdom's last royal dynasty, the site was used for the royal hall. The Chedi of the City Navel was built here in the 13th century, and still stands on the south side of the building. It was originally built in the Haripunchai (Lamphun) style but has been restored and renovated throughout the city's history. This historic site also housed the ancient Inthakhin city pillar before it was moved to nearby Wat Chedi Luang.
The Three Kings Monument in front of the building commemorates the three 13th century kings who chose the auspicious site for the "new city" of Chiangmai.