Famous Historical places of Thailand
"Wat Mahathart Waraviharn"
Wat Mahathart Waraviharn is one of four Phethchaburi Royal monasteries. The temple has been a symbol of Phethchaburi for more than 1,000 years. It has been a significant location where archeological, historical and cultural evidence habe been collected and housed. The temple located on the West bank of the Phethchaburi River. It is highly recognized for a number of its important Buddha images as well as historical remains and relics. Wat Nahathart is regarded as one of the most favorite tourist attractions of Phethchaburi province. Phra Prang of Wat Mahathart is a huge and high structure that can be seen from the distance outside the temple. Phra Prang is a group of five pagodas located in the northern part of the monastery area. Phra Prang is assumed as being built during Davaravadee period more than 1,000 years ago. The structure of Phra Prang is Khmare-influenced.
Wat Mahathart Waraviharn is the official name of the temple given in Rattanakosin period by King Rama VI of the Chakkri monarchy. Before then, the temple was called "Wat NaPrathart" by the locals and changed by the King Rama V to "Wat NaPhrathart." Despite the name "Wat Mahathart" the temple was also found as being named "Wat Phra Sri Mahathart." Historical and archaeological evidence suggest that Wat Mahathart might have been established in the Davaravadee or Sukhothai period. The SEMA stone (monastery boundary marker) witha double-leaf design found in the monastery area confirmed such a suggestion. Phra Vihara Luang is the main edifice housing the principal Buddha images of the temple. It is assumed as being built during the reign of King Bhorommagote, around the second half of the Ayutthaya period (1732 - 1758). The gable of Phra Vihara Luang and stucco guardian of Phra Prang are shown.
	Major Buddha images situated in Wat Mahathart Waraviharn are : Luang Por Sak Sitthi (The Sacred Buddha Image). The image is mounted in Phra Vihara Luang. Luang por Dheva Rit, Luang por U-Thong. In addition, there are much more Buddha images situated along the galleries surrounding Phra Prang.