Wat Phra Kaew in Kamphaeng Phet Province is considered one of the most important temples, located right in the heart of the city and serving as a spiritual center for the people since ancient times. Its layout is similar to other significant temples in Thailand’s historic cities, such as Wat Phra Si Sanphet in Ayutthaya and Wat Mahathat in Sukhothai. All of these were royal temples situated near palaces or central administrative areas. Therefore, Wat Phra Kaew in Kamphaeng Phet holds profound importance in terms of art, history, and religion.

 

One fascinating aspect of Wat Phra Kaew is the wide variety of ancient structures within its grounds. These include the principal bell-shaped chedi surrounded by lion statues, a circular chedi encircled by elephants, vihara (assembly halls), mandapas, ordination halls, and numerous smaller chedis. All were constructed with laterite, a local material commonly found in Kamphaeng Phet, which was also used to build the temple’s surrounding walls in strong, upright blocks. These constructions reflect the prosperity of Kamphaeng Phet as a secondary royal city and a key frontier town during the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya periods.

 

Wat Phra Kaew also stands out for its legendary associations with Buddhism. Historical records note that the Emerald Buddha and the Phra Phuttha Sihing once resided here, elevating the temple’s status as the most significant religious site in Kamphaeng Phet. King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) later referred to this grand temple at the city’s center as “Wat Phra Kaew,” in recognition of its historical and spiritual importance.

 

From an artistic perspective, Wat Phra Kaew showcases a blend of styles from different periods. The oldest structures are believed to be around the Elephant Chedi at the rear of the temple, located near Kamphaeng Phet’s City Pillar Shrine. In front of the Elephant Chedi, remnants of a colossal standing Buddha’s feet were discovered, suggesting that a massive laterite Buddha image, possibly as tall as 20 meters, once stood there. Today, only its remains testify to the grandeur of the past.

 

Most of the Buddha images found at Wat Phra Kaew, including the principal Buddha in the vihara, have deteriorated, leaving only their laterite cores. Yet one of the most intriguing features for both tourists and archaeologists is the group of “Three Buddha Images” with strikingly angular faces, reflecting strong Ayutthaya influences rather than the Sukhothai style typically seen in other temples of Kamphaeng Phet. This distinction adds a unique artistic value to the site.

 

Visiting Wat Phra Kaew is not only a journey into the artistic and cultural heritage of Kamphaeng Phet but also a chance to witness the grandeur of the Sukhothai and Ayutthaya kingdoms. The temple embodies the deep faith of the people, who came together to build monumental religious structures that stand as evidence of the city’s former glory. Today, Wat Phra Kaew is part of the Kamphaeng Phet Historical Park, which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, further highlighting its universal cultural value.

 

Exploring Wat Phra Kaew offers an enriching experience for those interested in Thai history, archaeology, and ancient art. Visitors can spend hours studying the details of each monument within its peaceful grounds, where the laterite walls, shaded by greenery, stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history.

 

Thus, Wat Phra Kaew in Kamphaeng Phet is not just an ancient temple, but also a sacred spiritual center and a priceless cultural treasure reflecting the grandeur of Thai civilization. Anyone visiting Kamphaeng Phet should not miss the opportunity to experience the majesty and sanctity that still linger in this historic site.