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Locally dubbed as "Wat Yai", the complex is
considered the most important temple in Phitsanulok. Housing Thailand's
famous Phra Phutthachinnarat, Wat Yai is located at the foot of
Naresuan Bridge on the city side of the river. The temple was built
during the reign of Phra Maha Thamma Racha I (Phraya Lithai) in 1357.
Phra Phutthachinnarat is considered the most
beautiful Buddha image in Thailand. The large Sukhothai-style bronze
statue was cast in 1357 by the order of King Maha Thamma Racha I of
Sukhothai. The statues unique feature is the flame-like halo a symbol
of spiritual radiance. In 1931, King Ekatotsarot (King Naresuan's
younger brother) commanded a gold coating of the image, making it
outstanding against the dark backdrop.
Today, thousands of visitors, both Thais and
foreigners, flock to Wat Yai just to get a glimpse of Phra
Phutthachinnarat. Most of contemporary Buddha images are cast using
Phra Phutthachinnarat as a model. There is even a saying that, your
trip to Phitsanulok is not complete without visiting Wat Yai to pay
respect to Phra Phutthachinnarat. Only the Emerald Buddha situated in
the Grand Palace, Bangkok, is more highly respected by Thais. A
celebration to honour the statue is held annually in late January.
Other outstanding features of the temple (vihan
in Thai) include the large pearl-inlaid wooden doors, the gateway to
see Phra Phutthachinnarat. The doors were completed in 1756 by
Ayutthaya's royal craftsmen. Inside the vihan are the Italian marble
floor, two painted pulpits (thammas) placed to one side, and murals
illustrating the life of the Lord Buddha.
Apart from Phra Buddha Chinnarat, there are
other Buddha images worth seeing. Phra Attharot, a standing Buddha
statue cast in same period as Phra Phutthachinnarat, is situated in
front of the large Phra Prang (pagoda) behind the Viharn.
A 36-metre high Phra Prang was built in the
early Ayutthaya style. There are staircases leading up to the place
where relic of the Lord Buddha is enshrined.
There is also a small museum, which exhibits a
good collection of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya-era Buddha images and
related religious items that is worth visiting. Visitors are advised to
dress conservatively.
Wat Phra Si Mahathat Woramahawihan is open daily between 6.30 a.m. and
6.00 p.m. The Phra Phutthachinnarat National Museum is open from
Wednesday to Sunday, between 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. The museum is
closed on public holidays, for more information, click www.thailandmuseum.com.
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