30 Dec 2024 - BKK Day 8 (Ayutthaya): Wat Ratchaburana

The third temple where our tour brought us to was Wat Ratchaburana, a significant Buddhist temple renowned for its historical and architectural importance.

The first prominent structure that caught attention was the temple's central prang (Khmer-style tower), considered one of the finest in Ayutthaya.

Below photo with the central prang was taken by our tour guide and he did it for almost everyone in the tour group.

The design of this tall, tower-like spire reveals influences from both Khmer and Sukhothai architectural styles.  This prang symbolizes Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Buddhist and Hindu cosmology. Surrounding the prang are smaller stupas and remnants of the royal vihara, providing insight into the temple's original grandeur.

One of the more interesting features is the crypt that is located within the central prang, that once contained many treasures and still has some remaining mural paintings.  In 1957, the temple's crypt was looted, revealing a wealth of treasures, including gold artifacts, a sword of victory, a crown, and Buddha statues. These items are now exhibited at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.

Visiting these ancient temples in Ayutthaya made me feel as though I was having an adventure in one of those "Indiana Jones" movies.

Wat Ratchaburana was established in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II, also known as Chao Sam Phraya.  The temple was built on the cremation site of his two elder brothers, who tragically died in a battle for the royal succession. Therefore, it is a temple that memorializes a tragic event within the royal family.

Wat Ratchaburana stands as a testament to the rich history and artistic heritage of the Ayutthaya period.

The photo below was edited on my iPhone which really helps to bring out the colours.

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