Wat Nao Phra Meru Ratchaaram Worawihan in Ayutthaya: Historical Significance and Architectural Features

Key summary

Wat Nao Phra Meru Ratchaaram Worawihan in Ayutthaya served as the headquarters for Burmese forces during the siege of the capital that ended in April 2310 BE. The temple, located 378 meters from the royal palace wall and separated by a moat, was spared destruction because it housed the enemy army. First mentioned in chronicles around 2106 BE regarding peace treaty pavilions between this temple and Wat Hsadawas, it later hosted King Alaungpaya's artillery in 2303 BE before his death. The site features a complete Ubon Thot (ordination hall) with original roof structures, gilded wooden pediments depicting Narayana riding Garuda flanked by deities (26 on the front, 22 on the back), and a main Buddha image believed to be from the reign of King Prasat Thong. It also houses a large green stone Kanchanaraja statue originally from Wat Mahathat, dating back over 1,000 years, and three bell-shaped chedis in the Ayutthaya style.