Wat Maha That
Attraction
4.6 (17956 reviews)
Buddhist temple with ruins, colorful shrines & a famed Buddha head surrounded by tree roots.
9H49+P85 Wat Mahathat, Thanon Naresuan, Tambon Tha Wa Su Kri, Amphoe Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Chang Wat Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya 13000, Thailand
Did You Know?
Buddha Head in Tree Roots
One of the most iconic sights in Ayutthaya is the Buddha head encased in the roots of a fig tree at Wat Maha That. This unique image is a testament to the power of nature and the enduring legacy of Buddhism in Thailand.
Ancient Capital
Wat Maha That was built in the 14th century, during the Ayutthaya Kingdom, which was the second Siamese kingdom. The temple was a major religious center and served as a symbol of the kingdom's power and prosperity.
Historical Significance
Wat Maha That is located in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, which was once a thriving center of trade and culture. The city was destroyed by the Burmese in the 18th century, but its ruins remain a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Central Structure
The central structure of Wat Maha That is a large chedi, or stupa, which is a dome-shaped structure that contains relics of the Buddha. The chedi is surrounded by a number of smaller structures, including viharn (prayer halls) and bot (ordination halls).
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