OUTSIDE BANGKOK: HOUSES OF THE HOLY IN AYUTTHAYA

The Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya (or simply Ayutthaya) was the capital of Thailand for 417 years (1350-1767) and was once one of the most majestic cities in Southeast Asia. Located 86 km outside of Bangkok, today it is a historical site populated by crumbling buildings and headless Buddhas (the effects of both earthquakes and invasions). A visit there makes for a great day trip and a fascinating glimpse into Thailand's past.

Wat Phra Si Sanphet & the Grand Palace

During the height of the Ayutthaya Period, this site was the grandest palace complex in Asia, but it was eventually burnt down when the Kingdom was invaded.


Wat Mahatat

This temple is home to one of the most famous images in all of Thailand, the head of a Buddha image overgrown with the roots of a fig tree:

This city temple was the site of many royal rituals in the past and the structures reflect the changing architectural trends of the time.


Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Located on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, this wat remains in good condition (compared to some of the others we visited). It was built in 1630 by King Prasat Thong in the style of Cambodia's famed Angkor Wat to celebrate the King's military victory of Thailand's neighboring country.


Wat Yai Chaimongkhon

The tourist bureau in Ayutthaya lists this as the most popular site in the old Kingdom. It his home to a white recling Buddha:


The temple has great significance for Thai people as it was built during the reign of King Naresuan the Great to commemorate an epic battle that saw him riding an elephant into battle to defeat an invading Burmese prince.


The main structure here is an octagonal-based, bell-shaped stupa that one can climb for some majestic views.


Wat Phananchoeng

Built 26 years before Ayutthaya was established (1325), this temple is home to Thailand's tallest gilded Buddha. Unfortunately, the statue was undergoing extensive renovations when we were there, so we were unable to take a picture of it.

Another thing that makes this monastary stand out is the fact that it is tended to by the local Chinese community. For this reason, the influence of Chinese symbols and architecture can be felt throughout the complex.


It's always interesting to find swastikas in ancient art, and this Chinese Buddha is no exception.


As you can see, we saw many things during our trip to Ayutthaya, but we really just scratched the surface. There is still a lot more to cover, and a trip back to the old Kingdom is definately in our plans.