The Mahawan Gate is one of two city gates still standing, another two having to be demolished to expand the road system. However the fact that the old wall remained essentially intact is remarkable and allowed restoration to create the unique feature Lamphun is proud of today.

According to onsite information, the wall and moat dates back to the foundation of the city itself, built around 660 A.D. by Wasuthep Rusri to surround the palace of Queen Chamatewi. In 1519 A.D. it was improved by Phra Muangkeaw.