WAT SUTHAT THEPWARARAM RATCHAWORAMAHAWIHAN

Founded at the centre of Rattanakosin Island, this is one of Thailand's six most important temples. Construction was according to the Treatise on Warfare. King Rama I wished to make it the central temple of Bangkok and building started in 1807.

Construction was completed according to plan in the reign of King Rama VII. Good planning from the beginning earned it praise as "the most finely proportioned temple."

Ubosot: It is the longest in Thailand . Murals are by artisans in the reign of King Rama III. The principal Buddha image is named Phra Puttatri Lokachet, and is cast in alloy in the Subduing Mara position. In front are the 80 disciples.

Phra Wihan Luang: Copied from Wat Mongkolbophit in Ayutthaya . The central pair of doors were designed by King Rama II, who started the carving. The murals are considered to be the most beautiful work of the Rattanakosin period.

Phra Wihan Kod: Built in the reign of King Rama III, and surrounds the Phra Wihan Luang on all four sides. There are 156 Buddha images enshrined inside. The door frames are decorated with lacquered images of Sio Kang.

Phra Sri Sakyamuni: Cast in bronze with the base of pure cloth, in front of Phra Puttabanlang, containing the remains of King Rama VIII.

Satta Mahasathan or "the Seven Places": Represent the places the Lord Buddha reside after enlightenment. King Rama III ordered them to be copied from Phrathat Chedi.