Thailand

Who hasn’t visited the historical park of Ayutthaya without marveling at Wat Ratchaburana and its magnificent prang? A favorite among visitors!

Wat Ratchaburana, one of Ayutthaya's most beautiful temples

The Khmer-style sugar loaf temples are the pride of Ayutthaya, the royal city of Siam, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the most famous is Wat Ratchaburana, a must-visit for any respectable tourist. Located at the corner of Naresuan Street, this 600-year-old sanctuary was designed both as a place of worship and a crematorium. Its stone prang, resembling a mountain peak, recalls the grandeur of the lost empire. It bears witness to the city's golden age, when Ayutthaya dominated maritime trade in Southeast Asia, Buddhism inspired remarkable paintings and bronze statues, and internal struggles tore apart the royal family. Wat Ratchaburana is often visited alongside Wat Mahathat, the temple mountain across the street.

Historical notes

The temple was founded in 1424 by order of Boromracha II. Translated, Wat Ratchaburana means "the monastery of royal restoration."

Upon the death of Intharacha I, Princes Ai Phraya and Yi Phraya fought for the Ayutthaya throne. Settling their scores with swords, both perished. The crown passed to Chao Sam Phraya, Intharacha I's younger son, who took the title of Boromracha II.

Thus, Wat Ratchaburana primarily served as a funerary monument. Two stupas were erected on the grounds to house the ashes of the two princes. The young sovereign aimed to restore the monarchy's image in the eyes of the people.

In 1767, the Burmese plundered the capital, Ayutthaya. The temple was largely destroyed and left in ruins for many years. Restoration work began in 1956 under the initiative of Prime Minister Phibun Songkram. A gang of looters was caught during excavations, attempting to steal numerous gold artifacts. Despite their arrest, much of the gold vanished, likely sold to collectors and antiquity traffickers.

Today

Who wouldn’t love to visit a UNESCO site? Wat Ratchaburana is one, and travelers who have seen it commend its central prang, restored to its original architecture. The monument holds significant historical importance, showcasing the luxury and opulence of Ayutthaya's court.

A tour of the historical temple

Wat Ratchaburana is a fine example of early Ayutthaya architecture. The structure dates back to the 15th century, with tower-mountains being the norm.

While much of the complex has succumbed to time's wear, the main thrust has endured. Before you stands a monumental stone tower resembling Mount Meru, the abode of gods in Hindu beliefs.

The facade was once adorned with stucco motifs; now only bare bricks remain. Among the few sculptures in good condition, admire the Naga serpent and the Garuda birdman occupying the upper part of the facade.

The prang has three entrance porches connected to the ground by a flight of stairs. Access is possible via stairs on the north, east, or south sides. The royal necropolis consists of two stacked chambers: the lower chamber is so narrow it can accommodate only one person, while the upper chamber is larger. The necropolis is located in the central chamber of the prang. Since 1958, the Department of Fine Arts has installed a narrow staircase for easier access to the tombs. Chinese miniatures in the lower chamber are nearly faded, unlike the decorative frescoes in the upper chamber. On the walls, you can clearly see Buddha preaching to his disciples, birds, and still-life landscapes.

During an exploration mission in 1957, archaeologists unearthed 100,000 votive tablets. Gold jewelry belonging to the Crown was also found, weighing over 100 kg. Golden statues and precious art objects were recovered, many of which are now on display at the Chao Sam Phraya Museum.

The prang's vaults are adorned with frescoes depicting the life of Vessantara Jataka. His birth, princely happiness, journey as a begging monk… Unfortunately, time has worn out these paintings, and most designs have faded.

Practical information

Price and opening hours

An entrance fee of 50 baht (half the price for children) is required upon entry.

How to get there?

The proximity to downtown makes traveling to Wat Ratchaburana very convenient. Whether by bus, songthaew, or taxi, everyone will find a transportation option within their budget.

Nearby attractions

Have you enjoyed your visit to Wat Ratchaburana? Just a stone's throw from the temple, other Khmer ruins await your attention:

• Wat Phra Sri Sanphet;
• Wat Mahathat;
• Chao Sam Phraya National Museum.