Thailand is full of history and memories, it is still possible to see its past in a great number of monuments and important places, as they are impregnated with the past and the voices of those who played the leading role in those bygone days. Its capital Bangkok is no exception and neither is its temple Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit in the capital of Thailand, where you can breathe a unique atmosphere in each of its numerous temples.

Built during the 18th century and Ayutthaya period by King Rama I, Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit was formely known as Wat Salak. This themple is located between the Grand Palace and Front Palace (Krom Phra Rajawang Bovorn Sathan Mongkol) in the Na Phrathat Road, Phra Nakhon District of Bangkok.

Wat Mahathat is one of the 10 royal temples of the highest class and one of the most religiously significant. It is one of the oldest temples, having been built before Bangkok became the capital of Thailand.

The Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, the oldest center of study for Buddhist monks in Thailand founded in 1887, is situated within the temple, where they offer courses to learn the respective techniques. They run various programmes, some of which are even offered in English, so tourists are welcome to attend as well. They even offer room and lodging for those who want to dedicate themselves formally to these meditation workshops, but whoever joins must follow a fairly strict lifestyle regime.

The purpose of the construction of Wat Mahathat Yuwarajarangsarit was to house the relics of Buddha, inside it is possible to admire various sculptures alluding to Buddhism. It is also surrounded by a beautiful garden and has a courtyard where there are galleries with a large number of images of Buddha on very well decorated pedestals.

It is worth mentioning, as an extremely interesting detail, that the biggest market of amulets in the city takes place very close to the temple, and it is held every Sunday. There is an enormous diversity of traditional medicine remedies and talismans, which have various purposes, such as improving health, warding off enemies, attracting money, among others.

Wat Mahathat is also known as Temple of the Great Relic.

Location: Near Sanam Luang Park, between the Grand Palace and the National Museum on Mahathat Street.
Price: Free entry but donations accepted.
Opening hours: 7 AM to 5 PM.

-Thailand News (TN)