Phitsanulok - Wat Phra Ratana Mahathat

Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat

The most important construction in Phitsanulok stands near the bridge across the Nan on the edge of the old town. Wat Phra Si Ratana Mahathat can be recognized from a distance by its 36-m (118-ft) tall, Khmer-style prang, completed in 1482. The upper section of the prang is gold-plated. The wat was built at the end of the 15th c. by King Boroma Trailokanat (1448-88) as a symbol of his rule over the newly acquired area. The temple has been restored several times, which has greatly altered its appearance.

The wiharn's steep roof is built of colored glass bricks (Bangkok period) and is in three layers; the tympanums are decorated by gold-plated coffered carving. Slender pillars flank the portico, giving the entire building an appearance of striking ease. The Buddha statues on either side of the portico are marvelous examples of the Sukhothai and the Chiang Saen styles. The ebony doors with mother of pearl inlays date from 1756. The wiharn is lit only by narrow openings in the low side walls. Its triple-aisled interior is one of Thailand's most beautiful sacral rooms. Dark blue, red and gold lend definite color to the pillars, which end as lotus buds, and to the strutted entablature.

The wall paintings are more recent. The picture on the right depicts Buddha's enlightenment, the one on the left records the time in the life of the enlightened one, when he gave up all his worldly goods and dedicated himself totally to religion.