Wat Maha That

Situated in the heart of the ancient town, Wat Maha That was built in accordance with the Indian concept of Mandala. This significant temple comprises the main chedi, a vihara and mandapa buildings, the ordination hall and 200 subordinate chedis. Surrounded by eight chedis, the main one in the centre has a graceful shape of lotus bud characterising the art of Sukhothai. Among the eight chedis forming four sides of the main stupa, the four ones at the corners belong to the Hariphunchai - Lanna style. At the same time, the other four lying in between each have a prasat-shaped body topped with a spire in Sukhothai style and decorated with stucco reliefs under the influence of Sri Lankan art. Presumably, the main chedi was initially constructed in the latter style before it was rebuilt in the lotus bud shape. The base of the main chedi is decorated with stucco reliefs of Buddhist disciples walking with their hands clapped together in salutation.

Stone Inscription No.1 says, “… At the centre of Sukhothai there is a vihara, a golden Buddha image, Phra Attharot Buddha images, large Buddha images, medium Buddha images ...”
The golden Buddha image referred to in the inscription is understood as a bronze Buddha image cast in the posture of subduing Mara to be enshrined in the royal vihara of Wat Maha That by the command of Phra Maha Dharmaraja Li Thai in 1362 AD. In the reign of King Rama I, this Buddha image was removed by raft to be installed at Wat Suthat Thepwararam in Bangkok. The significant Buddha image was later named Phra Si Sakkayamuni by King Rama II. At present, the large pedestal of this Buddha image remains to be seen at the royal vihara of Wat Maha That.

The Buddha images mentioned as Phra Attharot refer to standing Buddha images of 12 meters in height enshrined in the mandapa buildings situated on both sides of the principal chedi.

Next to the royal vihara towards the east stands a tall vihara. Its base decorated with lotus moulding is 1.5 meters high. This vihara was built later in Ayutthaya style and the little space between the front of the vihara and a wall enclosing it was out of proportion to the height of the building. This is a reason why it was called the tall vihara. Within the compound of Wat Maha That there is a group of stupas situated to the south of the main chedi. At its centre stands the one with five spires, second to the main chedi in size. According to the inscription on the golden plate, it is believed that the relics of Phra Maha Dharmaraja Li Thai has been enshrined in this stupa.

[Ref: Guide to Sukhothai, Si Satchanalai and Kamphaeng Phet Historical Parks – Fine Arts Department (1999)]

Ayutthaya Historical Research