Wat Mahathat

Upon arriving in Ayutthaya by train, the first destination I headed to after renting a bicycle was Wat Mahathat. The ancient ruins scattered around the site were awe-inspiring, and their grandeur naturally made me bow in reverence.

📜 History
Wat Mahathat was established in 1374 by King Borommaracharat I and later expanded by successive kings, becoming a major Buddhist center of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. The most striking feature is the Buddha head embraced by the roots of a Bodhi tree. Over time and through the ravages of war, the tree roots have enveloped the damaged Buddha statue, creating a strangely peaceful and serene image.

🛕 Despite the ruins and destruction, the remaining fragments, stone walls, and garden remnants evoke the glory of a bygone era. It’s a tranquil place where you can feel the weight of history. If you have time, I recommend hiring a guide to explore the site at a leisurely pace.

Wat Mahathat is one of the must-visit spots within the Ayutthaya Historical Park. For those who want to experience history firsthand and connect with the remnants of a past kingdom, this site comes highly recommended.

Post by 휴일 | Sep 12, 2025