Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat

This ancient temple also has the tallest Prang, or sacred spire, in Lop Buri. The Lop Buri-style Prang in front of the temple was built around 1157 AD when the town came under Khmer rule. The U-Thong style Buddha images on the prang and the large viharn were later added by King Narai the Great. The laterite prang still has some original lintels and stucco work intact. A number of other Chedis and Prangs (spires)-most of which were restored-were greatly influenced by both the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya styles.Entering into the temple’s compound, visitors will at first glance see the SalaPlueangKhrueang, a pavilion for the king to change his attire. At present, all that is left of the pavilion are its reclining columns. Another highlight is a northwestern “satellite” Prang (spire). At every corner of its star-fruit shape, there is a stucco relief of ThepPhanom-angels in a state of adoration-turning their faces to each compass direction. It is a unique and beautiful feature of the temple, rarely seen in Thailand.WatPhra Si RattanaMahathat is located behind the railway station near the San Phra Kan. WatPhra Si RattanaMahathat is open from 7.00 am-5.00 pm, Wednesdays through Sundays. Adults pay 50 baht each for entry; children have free admission. A package ticket is also available, allowing visits to Phra Prang Sam Yot, Vichayen House and KraisonSiharat Hall for 150 baht total.