The longest capital name in the world belongs to Bangkok, the capital of Thailand. The full name of the city is Krung Thep Mahanakhon Amon Rattanakosin Mahinthara Yuthaya Mahadilok Phop Noppharat Ratchathani Burirom Udomratchaniwet Mahasathan Amon Piman Awatan Sathit Sakkathattiya Witsanukam Prasit.
This lengthy name may seem daunting, but it actually has a beautiful meaning. In English, it 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 Vishnukam”.
The name has been in use since 1782, and is believed to have been given by King Rama I who founded the Chakri Dynasty. The name was written on a royal decree to commemorate the relocation of the capital of Siam from Thonburi to Bangkok.
The name has been shortened to Krung Thep over time, and is the most commonly used name for the capital city. Despite being shortened, the full name is still used in many important documents.
The length of this name makes it the longest capital name in the world. The second longest capital name is the capital of Laos, Vientiane, which has a name that is only slightly shorter.
It is incredible that a city can have such a long and beautiful name, and the story behind it is even more remarkable. This name is a testament to the history and culture of Thailand and serves as a reminder of the city’s rich heritage.