Wat Matchimawat Worawihan

Photo Credit: ททท.สำนักงานสงขลา

Wat Matchimawat Worawihan

Sairaburi Road, Boyang, Songkhla City.

This is the largest and most significant temple in Songkhla Province, boasting a history that stretches back 400 years, having been constructed in the late Ayutthaya period. Originally known as Wat Yai Sri Chan, local tales recount how Yai Sri Chan, a wealthy noblewoman from Songkhla during the late Ayutthaya era, dedicated her funds to its construction. Later, as other temples were established—Wat Liao to the north and Wat Pho to the south—the locals began referring to Wat Yai Sri Chan as "Wat Klang," eventually renaming it "Wat Matchimawats" by His Royal Highness Prince Vachirayan Varoros during his visit to Songkhla in 1888. This temple features architectural styles similar to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, albeit on a smaller scale, crafted by royal artisans from the Government's Bureau of Craftsmanship, alongside local craftsmen from Songkhla. The roof is adorned with a chofah, although it lacks the traditional naga element. The front pediment showcases Indra riding his three-headed elephant, Erawan, while the rear features a representation of Brahma with a swan. Surrounding the temple are columns that support the eaves, and between the outer columns are intricate stone reliefs depicting scenes from the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms." The windows and doors are adorned with decorative crown arches, adding to its charm. The main ubosot (ordination hall), built during the reign of King Rama I, exhibits a unique blend of Thai and Chinese artistic styles. Inside, it houses well-preserved mural paintings executed in powder paints, illustrating themes such as deities in assembly, the life of the Buddha, the Ten Birth Stories, and the daily lives of Thai and Chinese communities in the south. One notable mural portrays the bustling Songkhla port at Haek Khao Daeng, a significant trading hub at the time. Additionally, the "Phatrasilapa" museum holds an impressive collection of Buddha statues and ancient artifacts gathered from Songkhla, Satun, and Ranot, providing invaluable historical insights worthy of study. The main Buddha statue, a marble representation in the meditative posture, measures 55 centimeters in width and showcases a blend of Thai and Chinese characteristics. It is said that local craftsmen sculpted the figure before sending it to China for fine carving. Location: The temple is situated on Sai Buri Road, Moo 11, Bo Yai Yang Sub-district, Mueang District, Songkhla Province.

Province: Songkhla

Reviews from Members

Be the first to review this place

Contact Information

Phone Number

Added by

ลลิตา วันลาไม่เคยพอ

ลลิตา วันลาไม่เคยพอ

Member since 26/11/2020

0

Points

2

Followers

0

Following

Location on Map

Public Gallery

No one had upload yet. Want to be the first?

Plan Trip on App

Plan Trip on App

Like it's your personal travel assistant

Report the place

  • Report the place
    Copyright
  • Wrong Data
    Wrong Data

Share this Place

Add new Place
 

Many places are still not in our map

We invite you to add places. help other travelers find new places to visit.

Add new Place