Must Visit Temples in Lopburi
Most tourists that come to lopburi will probably already know of the more recognized temples in the city such as Phra Prang Sam Yot, the temple that is home to hundreds of monkeys. However, there are so many other temples in Lopburi that are more than worth a trip to see. There are so many great stories attached to these temples throughout the history of Thailand and we are lucky that we are still able to see buildings that are thousands of years old.
Take a look at three must visit temples in Lopburi that you might not have heard of.
Wat Sao Tong Thong
Located in the heart of Lopburi city is Wat Sao Tong Thong, a Buddhist temple that allegedly began life as both a Hindu Temple and a Christian church sometime during the era of King Narai between 1656 and 1688. It is believed that the buildings in those times at the site were used to serve any western diplomats that came to Thailand (or Siam as it was called in those days).
The temple has is also believed to have been used as an Islamic Mosque as well, which must make it one of the only buildings still standing on this planet that have been used as a place of worship for at least four different religions.
Wat Sri Rattana Mahatat
Wat Sri Rattana Mahatat is certainly among Lopburi’s most attractive temples and is also among the largest. It is said to have been constructed around the start of the 13th century and has a nice blend of both Khmer and Siamese architecture throughout the prangs and chedis respectively.
The story behind this temple is an intriguing one as it was built as the residence of Constantine Phaulkon. He was from Greece and was a man of many talents, mastering a number of languages including Thai and English. He would eventually become a trusted advisor, friend and right hand man of King Narai.
He eventually died at the hands of those that were involved in a coup while the King himself was taken ill and on his death bed.
Prang Kraek
What makes Prang kraek stand out from the other temples on this list is the fact that it is a little bit of ancient history that is sandwiched between the modern shops and government buildings of today. It is a small temple that was originally a Hindu shrine from the era of the Khmer Empire and is actually the oldest building in Central Thailand as it dates back to the 8th century.
There is not too much left of this ancient temple with just one of the three prangs still standing but when you consider there is no entry fee to see it, it is definitely worth a visit.
