Wat Maha That

Wat Maha That has become famous as the site where a Buddha's head peeks out from inside a tree. Locals like to say that the tree is lifting Buddha's head off the ground since the relic is so holy. However, many other structures at this former monastery are also worth a look. There is evidence that a 12th-century Dvaravati settlement existed at the site of Wat Maha That before King U-Thong arrived in 1350 CE. However, the actual construction date is recorded as starting in 1374 CE and ending in 1388 CE. King Borommaracha I (reign 1370-1388 CE) founded this temple as the city's spiritual center, and the Supreme Patriarch of a forest-sect of Buddhism used the monastery. Wat Maha That's construction was finished during King Ramesuan's second reign (1388-1395 CE).

Wat Maha That was initially built with a 38-meter-high Khmer-style prang, but it collapsed during King Songtham's reign (1610-1628 CE). King Prasat Thong (reign 1629-1656 CE) restored it to become the highest monument in Ayutthaya's history - a record-breaking 51 meters. However, the Burmese set it on fire when they invaded in 1767 CE.

Wat Maha That also referred to as Wat Nopphathat, remained in ruins after the fall of Ayutthaya. The Khmer-style prang finally collapsed sometime between 1904 and 1911 CE (depending on the source). Looters plundered Wat Maha for years afterwards. Photographs have survived showing its structure intact, taken from a floating market at a canal that has since been turned into Chikun Road.

Ayutthaya Historical Research