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Wat Thammikarat is one of the lesser visited ruins in the ancient Siam capital of Ayutthaya, Thailand. It is believed that it actually predates the city of Ayutthaya, with parts of it possibly dating back to the 12 century.
Today it is actually a working temple, and several newer buildings have been built around the ruins.
Newer Buddha statues
The main ruins to explore at Wat Thammikarat is a chedi that is surrounded by a large number of lion statues, and the large viharn that still has most of it’s walls and several of it’s large columns still standing.
Another lovely feature is a tree that is growing out of one of the walls of the viharn.
The chedi surrounded by lion figures
View of the Viharn from outside
I was surprised at the huge amount of rooster statues located around the ruins. From what I can tell, people bring them here as offerings, which accounts for the large number of them. Apparently the origin of these rooster statues is based upon a legend about a wager between a prince of Ayutthaya and a prince of Burma in a cock fight. The prince’s rooster won the fight, causing the Burmese prince’s humiliation.
Rooster statues at the front of the Viharn
The interior of the viharn is characterized by it’s tall intact columns. This would have been a spectacular sight at the height of this great city.
Inside the viharn
Although Wat Thammikarat isn’t as grand as some of the larger, more popular ruins in Ayutthaya, it is definitely still worth checking out.
Have you been to Ayutthaya, Thailand? What was your favourite ruin?
I really like the pictures, especially the rooster statues. First time by your site, I’ll be sure to check back often.
Ryan at Travel and Graphs recently posted..Photo Friday: Lizard at Zion
I’m glad you like them Ryan. Thanks for stopping by!
Dean Wickham recently posted..Photo of the week: Lake Moogerah Panorama, Australia
I forgot just how red everything is in Ayutthaya, quite a sight!
Sofia @ As We Travel recently posted..Places To Visit In Sri Lanka – Exploring The Coast
Hi Sofia. I was actually quite surprised at that myself. Everything was built out of the same red bricks, but I guess that is what has kept them standing for so long.
[…] week’s travel photo is of the ruined viharn at Wat Thammikarat in Ayutthaya, Thailand. Wat Thammikarat is a lesser visited ruin in the historical park of Ayutthaya and it is still used as a working […]