Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit

"Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit, a prominent Buddhist temple in Bangkok, holds a distinguished position as one of the ten royal temples of the highest class in the city. The temple’s origins trace back to the Ayutthaya period (1351–1767), where it was initially known as Wat Salak. Following the establishment of Bangkok as the capital, the temple became strategically significant, situated between the Grand Palace and the Front Palace, the residence of the vice-king. This location made it an important site for royal ceremonies and funerals. The temple's status and structure were significantly enhanced over the centuries, with numerous renovations under the reigns of various Thai kings. In 1803, it was officially named Wat Mahathat of Bangkok, and later, in 1996, it adopted its current full name, Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit. Today, the temple is also home to a Vipassana Meditation center, continuing its spiritual and cultural legacy. The temple grounds house the Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Thailand’s oldest institution for Buddhist monks, which plays a central role in the education of monks and laypeople in Buddhist studies. Established in 1889, the university has evolved into a public institution, offering a wide range of programs in human sciences, social sciences, and graduate education, with an international programme catering to students from around the world."

"While entering these places please be mindful of Thai people's religious sentiments by covering your body, not speaking too loudly or running in the temple and taking off your shoes before entering the temple compound. "