Name: Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Medium: Brick and stucco

Date of creation: 1448

Exact location: Ayutthaya Historical Park, Thailand

Wat Phra Sri Sanphet was constructed as a part of the royal palace complex and served as the holiest and most important temple in the city. The primary purpose behind the construction of was to house a revered and magnificent image of the Buddha, known as the Phra Si Sanphet Buddha image. The temple complex also includes several chedis (stupas) where the ashes of royal family members were enshrined. The temple complex was largely destroyed when Ayutthaya fell to the Burmese in 1767. The site remains in its ruined state as a historical park and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Name: Wat Chaiwatthanaram

Medium: Brick and laterite

Date of creation: 1630

Exact location: Maenam Chao Phraya

Wat Chaiwatthanaram was constructed during the reign of King Prasat Thong in the 17th century of Ayutthaya period. The primary reason behind the construction of Wat Chaiwatthanaram was to honor King Prasat Thong's mother. The temple was intended as a place of reverence, merit-making, and spiritual devotion. Its name translates to "Temple of Long Reign and Glorious Era," reflecting the king's aspirations for his reign and the flourishing of the kingdom. The architectural style of Wat Chaiwatthanaram is influenced by Khmer and Ayutthayan elements, with its central prang (tower) surrounded by smaller prangs and subsidiary stupas.

Name: Wat Mahathat

Medium: Bricks and stucco

Date of creation: 1370-1388

Exact location: Grand Palace, Pa Than Bridge

Wat Mahathat was built in the 14th century and was important to the kingdom's religious and political life. The primary reason behind the construction of Wat Mahathat was to establish a major center for Buddhist religious activities and teachings. The temple complex was intended to house important relics and serve as a place of worship, meditation, and learning for monks and the public alike. The name "Wat Mahathat" translates to "Temple of the Great Relic," indicating its purpose as a repository for sacred Buddhist relics. The central stupa, which was a prominent feature of the temple, held a revered relic, possibly from the Buddha himself. The temple's significance was enhanced by its proximity to the royal palace, emphasizing the close connection between the monarchy and Buddhism.