In December, during my exciting vacation in Thailand, I was incredibly lucky to go on an unforgettable adventure with my friends @clayboyn, @rivalzzz and @phattaragon. Together we decided to explore the historical splendor of Ayutthaya, an important city north of Bangkok. Ayutthaya is not only a visual spectacle, but also a place deeply rooted in Thailand's history.
Our trip to Wat Mahathat in Ayutthaya, about an hour's drive from Bangkok, was a highlight of my vacation. Wat Mahathat, a Buddhist temple compound built in the 14th century, is famous for its breathtaking sight of the Buddha head mysteriously embedded in the roots of a tree. This image, which is almost symbolic of the fusion of nature and spirituality in Thailand, was just one of the many fascinating motifs we were able to capture that day.
The history of Ayutthaya itself is a captivating tale of rise and fall. Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya grew to become one of the most powerful cities in Southeast Asia and remained the thriving centre of the Kingdom of Siam for over 400 years. The city was known for its magnificent palaces, impressive temples and its strategic location, which enabled it to become a major trading centre between the East and the West. Unfortunately, numerous wars, in particular the destruction by the Burmese armies in 1767, led to the decline of this once magnificent city. The ruins of Ayutthaya, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a glimpse into the past and tell the story of Thailand's rich cultural heritage.
The Buddha head in the tree in the historical park of Ayutthaya, especially in the temple grounds of Wat Mahathat, is one of the most impressive and symbolic images in Thailand. This extraordinary image of a stone Buddha head, carefully entwined with the roots of an ancient Bodhi tree, attracts visitors from all over the world and has become a symbol of Thailand's cultural resilience and spiritual depth.
The exact story of how the Buddha head came to be embraced by the tree is shrouded in mystery and has become a legend over the years. There are several theories that attempt to explain how this unique state was achieved. One widely held belief is that the head was originally part of one of the many Buddha statues that adorned the temple. In 1767, Ayutthaya was destroyed after a long and bloody siege by the Burmese armies, leading to the fall of the kingdom. During this destruction, many of the temple statues were damaged or destroyed and it is believed that this head was separated from the rest of the statue and over time became encased in the roots of the tree.
Another theory is that the head may have been deliberately placed near the tree to protect it from further destruction or plundering. Over the centuries, the roots of the Bodhi tree have gently encircled the head and today provide a fascinating example of the interplay between nature and human creation.
Wat Mahathat, where this Buddha head was found, is one of the oldest and most important temples in Ayutthaya. The temple was founded in the 14th century during the early Ayutthaya period and played a central role in the religious life of the kingdom. The temple complex was a centre of Buddhism and education and was home to one of Thailand's first Buddhist universities.
The Buddha head in the tree is not only a tourist attraction, but also a spiritual symbol that reminds people of the transience of life and the permanence of nature. Visitors are encouraged to treat the site with respect and it is considered a sign of respect to be in a lower position than the head itself when taking photographs. This place remains a powerful testament to Thai history, culture and spirituality.
Half a day in Ayutthaya was enough to give us a deep impression of the historical significance and beauty of the place. @phattaragon, as a local Thai and invaluable tour guide, enriched our experience all the more. Her knowledge and anecdotes brought us closer to the history and culture of Thailand, making this excursion one of the most enjoyable and educational experiences of my vacation. The opportunity to be guided through Bangkok and Ayutthaya gave us insights that we probably would not have gained as ordinary tourists.
This trip to Ayutthaya was not only an escape from everyday life, but also a valuable lesson in history, culture and friendship. It not only strengthened the bonds with my friends, but also deepened my admiration for Thailand and its people. This trip remains in my memory as one of the most formative experiences that brought me closer to the beauty of discovery and a deep understanding of the past.
More Photos from Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya
Date: December 2023
Photos: by @louis88
Camera: Sony Alpha 7 III
Lens: Sony 70-200 f2
Thank you for reading my article - in the next report I will tell you about another area in Ayutthaya where we petted and fed elephants, rewarded an elephant with 20 baht and visited another wat. Stay tuned and curious.