Travel Like The Wind : Suchart Choolee
Tightly embraced by the roots of a sacred Bodhi tree, the sandstone Buddha head at Wat Mahathat presents an image both mysterious and mesmerizing. This iconic scene has become a symbol of the temple, one that no traveler visiting the historic site should miss capturing.
Situated within the Ayutthaya Historical Park near Wat Phra Si Sanphet and Wat Ratchaburana, Wat Mahathat was originally constructed during the reign of King Borommarachathirat I. Restoration work took place under King Ramesuan, who enshrined sacred Buddha relics beneath the main prang’s foundation in 1384. This act established Wat Mahathat as a major religious center in the former capital of Ayutthaya.
The temple grounds contain numerous ancient structures that reflect religious devotion and the craftsmanship of the Ayutthaya period. Although the central prang has collapsed, historical records from a Sri Lankan envoy mention the presence of mythological Himavanta creatures at the base—beings believed to dwell around Mount Meru in Buddhist cosmology.
A unique octagonal chedi draws particular attention, with four-tiered levels and a miniature prang at the top. No other structure of this design has been found elsewhere in Ayutthaya. Excavations beneath the main vihara revealed sacred relics, small clay jars, and golden offerings—evidence of elaborate religious rituals once held on the site.
Ancient mural paintings on the walls of a smaller prang depict scenes from the Buddha’s life. The former residence of the Supreme Patriarch once featured decorative elements such as golden curtains, carpets, flower vases, and hanging lanterns, demonstrating the importance of the temple as a monastic hub.
Visitors are welcome daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours until 6:00 PM. General admission costs 10 baht, while students receive free entry. A walk through the ruins provides more than a glimpse of ancient architecture—it offers direct contact with Thailand’s spiritual and historical legacy.
Wat Mahathat stands as more than a historical ruin. The site serves as a living memory, a lasting example of resilience, artistic expression, and enduring religious faith.
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