The first of the four temples that we visited was Wat Yai Chaimongkhon.
The first thing we saw after entering the temple was a reclining Buddha, draped in saffron cloth, a traditional symbol of respect.
The structure that houses the reclining buddha, shows the age of the temple, with the base of the structure being original.
Originally known as Wat Pa Kaeo, this temple was established in 1357 by King U-Thong, the first king of Ayutthaya. It was initially intended to house monks returning from studies in Sri Lanka, emphasizing its early connection to established Buddhist traditions. Another notable architectural feature of Wat Yai Chaimongkhon is the elegant, ornate sala (pavilion) housing a large seated Buddha statue.
The temple's current name, Wat Yai Chaimongkhon (meaning "Monastery of Auspicious Victory"), stems from King Naresuan the Great's victory over the Burmese in 1592. This pivotal battle solidified Ayutthaya's independence, and the temple became a symbol of this triumph.
Wat Yai Chaimongkhon remains an active temple, where Thai Buddhists come to pray and make offerings. The temple's association with King Naresuan's victory makes it a symbol of Thai national pride and serves as a reminder of Ayutthaya's golden age and the resilience of the Thai people.
Like much of Ayutthaya, the temple suffered damage during the Burmese invasion in 1767. Subsequently it underwent periods of abandonment and neglect. Later significant restoration efforts, particularly in the 20th century, have helped preserve and revitalize the temple.
One of the most striking features of Wat Yai Chaimongkhon is its massive central chedi (stupa). This large, bell-shaped stupa stands over 60 meters tall and is an iconic feature of the temple's skyline. Its bell-shaped design is a classic example of Ayutthaya-era architecture, with influences from Sri Lankan styles.
Visitors can climb the chedi to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding historical park.
The interior of the Chedi contains Buddha images, and places for devotees to leave offerings.
I climbed up and went into the Chedi with some of the tour group members while Tracy and the kids waited for me outside the Chedi.
The temple grounds are also home to numerous other smaller stupas, chedis, and intricate carvings that provide a sense of the temple's long history and grandeur.
In addition, the temple features a series of seated Buddha statues that line the steps leading to the chedi. These statues represent monks or disciples, and they offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere to the site.
Wat Yai Chaimongkhon is a significant cultural and historical landmark in Ayutthaya, offering a fascinating glimpse into Thailand's past. With its impressive architecture, rich history, and religious significance, the temple continues to be an important symbol of both the Ayutthaya Kingdom and the practice of Theravada Buddhism in Thailand.
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