Chaiya - Wat Phra Mahathat

Wat Phra Mahathat, a short distance out of the town on the road (4011) leading west from the railway station, is one of the most highly venerated temples in southern Thailand. Though twice restored (in 1901 and again in 1930), the 8th-9th c. central stupa, the oldest part of the wall-encircled temple complex, appears very much in its original form. It is a fine example of Srivijaya architecture with a strong Javanese influence (compare, for instance, the Borobodur temple complex in Java). The temple, as in Borobodur, is supported on a square base with sills around it, the walls being embellished with small blind porches and several little stupas crowning the triple-tiered roof. Although probably of later date, the chedi is also of