Wat Maha tat
This is the main attraction in Ayuthaya. This is a temple in ruins and am sure if this wasnt ruined, it would have attracted visitors from all over the world. This is located east of the Grand Palace. It is the royal temple and most sacred in Ayuthaya. Buddha relics were enshrined in the Mahatat Chedi (pagoda). This was built during Phra Borom Rajathirat I (Khun Luang Pha – Ngua) era in 1374 and completed in King Ramesuan. This was destroyed and burnt during the Ayuthaya Burma war in AD 1767.
Stupa or Chedi, headless Budha, Prang, Pedestal and a damaged wall are the main sites here. The head of the sandstone Buddha buried in the tree is a special mention here.
Phra Mongkhon Bophit
This is one of the largest bronze Buddha images in Thailand. The image measures 9.55 meters at the widest point across the lap and 12.45 meters high without the base. This buddha image is seated in the position of subduing mara and situated on the west side of the old palace compound in the Vihara of Phra Mongkhon Bophit temple. The image is believed to have been constructed in the early Ayuthaya period between 1448 to 1602 AD and was originally situated at the east side of the old palace compound. Later, during the reign of King Song Tham it was moved to the west side and a Mondop was built to shelter it. During the reign of King Phra Chao Sua (1706 AD) the top part of the Mondop and the head of the image were damaged by lightning. The Mondop was converted into a Vihara and the main restoration of Phra Mongkhon Bophit was completed during the reign of King BoromaKote (1742-1743 AD).
During the fall of the Ayuthaya Kingdom in 1767, the roof of the Vihara damaged by fire and the head and the right arm of the image broken. Later, the image was repaired and the Vihara was completely restored again in 1956. On 23rd March 1990, the Supreme Patriarch presided over a candle lighting ceremony in front of the image and announced that people could honour the image by covering it with gold leaf. HM Queen Sirikit auspiciously paid homage to the image and donated 70K thai baht to the restoration fund.
Pat Phong night market
As we had the evening to ourselves, wanted to explore this area. It was a row of small shops that sells from dresses and accessories mostly. This night market is good enough, but the shops aren’t family friendly!.. 😉
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