600 Year Old Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Historical Site - Suphan Buri Thailand 2025 скачать в хорошем качестве

600 Year Old Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat Historical Site - Suphan Buri Thailand 2025

Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, also known as Wat Phra Mahathat, is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the old city area of Suphan Buri Province, Thailand, specifically in Rua Yai Subdistrict along the western bank of the Tha Chin River. Its history spans several centuries, blending influences from the Khmer Empire and the Ayutthaya Kingdom, though exact founding details remain unclear due to a lack of definitive historical records. Origins and Early History The temple’s origins are believed to trace back to the Khmer period (approximately 11th-13th centuries), during the height of Khmer influence in the region. The central prang (a tower-like stupa) is thought to have been originally constructed as a gopura (gateway tower) during this era, reflecting Khmer architectural styles similar to those seen in Angkor. This structure, made entirely of clay bricks with a plastered exterior, symbolizes Mount Meru in Buddhist cosmology and was designed to house relics of the Buddha. The prang features a square base with an entrance niche and solid niches on other sides, topped with tiers resembling Garuda figures. The temple gained prominence during the early Ayutthaya period (14th century onward). It is associated with the reign of King U Thong (Ramathibodi I, r. 1351–1369), the founder of the Ayutthaya dynasty, who is credited with establishing or significantly developing the site, making it a royal temple of the first class. Its size and ruins are comparable to those in Ayutthaya Historical Park, underscoring its importance in the kingdom’s religious and cultural landscape. Subsequent renovations occurred under several Ayutthaya kings: • King Ramesuan (r. 1369–1370 and 1388–1395), who oversaw expansions. • King Maha Chakkraphat (r. 1548–1569), during whose reign further modifications were made. • King Prasat Thong (r. 1629–1656), who contributed to structural enhancements. These efforts transformed the temple into a major religious center, with additions like two octagonal chedis to the east of the prang, an ubosot (ordination hall), a small viharn (assembly hall), and smaller chedis to the west. The site also includes sandstone Buddha images and a standing Buddha statue known as Phra Attharot. Decline and Rediscovery Over time, the temple fell into disrepair. The main stupa, which once enshrined Buddha relics, was raided for treasures, leading to its neglect and partial ruin by the late 19th or early 20th century. In 1913, the governor of Suphan Buri initiated a formal excavation to uncover buried artifacts. This effort revealed numerous Phra Phong Suphan amulets—small votive tablets made from baked clay, renowned for their protective qualities in Thai Buddhist tradition. These amulets are considered among the most sacred and valuable in Thailand, forming part of the “Benjapakhee” set (the five most prestigious amulets). The discovery boosted the temple’s fame and spiritual significance. Modern Renovations and Significance The temple was rebuilt and restored in the 20th century, largely through the efforts of the late abbot Luang Pho Po (LP Po), a revered monk from Suphan Buri who contributed significantly to its reconstruction and modernization. A small shrine within the temple honors him today. More recent developments include ongoing excavations revealing additional Buddha statues, the addition of a reclining Buddha statue (with involvement from former Thai Prime Minister Banharn Silpa-archa), and the donation of crystal chandeliers from Russia in recent years. Today, the temple remains an active place of worship and a key cultural site, over 600 years old. It attracts visitors for its historical architecture, spiritual aura, and association with the Phra Phong Suphan amulets, which are still venerated for blessings of safety, popularity, and loving-kindness. The complex includes modern elements alongside ancient ruins, such as corridors with golden Buddhas and chapels, though some areas have faced criticism for maintenance issues like dirt and stagnant water in pools. The temple’s history reflects Suphan Buri’s role as an ancient town (formerly known as Suphannaphum) and its ties to broader Thai historical narratives, from Khmer dominance to Ayutthaya’s golden age. This is one of the most important temples in the region and is well worth a stop to explore. Enjoy the video! You can also see my videos on Rumble, Bitchute, Odysee and Subscribe Star. If you have any questions or comments and wish to contact me directly I can be reached by email at endlessjourneytravels@gmail.com https://www.bitchute.com/channel/pYUe... https://odysee.com/$/latest/@EndlessJ... https://rumble.com/c/EndlessJourney https://www.subscribestar.com/endless... Follow me on Twitter @AEndlessJourney #endlessjourney #travel #thailand