Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo

Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo is one of the most significant ancient monuments located within the old city walls of Si Satchanalai Historical Park, Sukhothai Province. This temple is renowned for its remarkable beauty and distinctive architectural identity. It stands at the center of the ancient city, aligned on the same axis as Wat Chang Lom, reflecting the importance of this archaeological area and symbolizing the flourishing of religion and art in the Sukhothai period. Its orientation towards the southeast highlights the well-planned city layout, designed in accordance with Buddhist cosmological beliefs.

 

The temple’s name, Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo (literally “Temple of the Seven Rows of Chedis”), was given by local villagers. When first discovered, rows of chedis (stupas) appeared in succession, leading to this name. However, later excavations and restorations by the Fine Arts Department revealed that the temple actually contains nine rows of chedis, along with more than 33 stupas and structures aligned in cosmological order. This makes the site exceptionally grand compared to other temples in Si Satchanalai.

 

What makes Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo particularly famous among both scholars and visitors is the diversity of stupa architecture concentrated in one location. These include the lotus-bud or “Phum Khao Bin” chedi, characteristic of pure Sukhothai art; Sinhalese-style chedis, influenced by Theravada Buddhism from abroad; the five-spired prasat-style chedis reflecting Bagan architecture; and richly decorated chediyavihara in the Pagan style. This architectural fusion provides archaeological evidence of the cultural and religious exchanges across Southeast Asia during that era.

 

Another important aspect of Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo is its possible function as a royal cemetery. Prince Damrong Rajanubhab proposed that the large number of subsidiary stupas was likely constructed to enshrine the ashes of members of the Sukhothai royal family. This interpretation underscores the temple’s role not only as a religious sanctuary but also as a sacred site for royal rituals.

 

Each chedi at this temple displays unique characteristics. Some are built on square laterite bases, topped with domes and adorned with niches housing stucco Buddha images in walking or standing postures. Traces of monochrome mural paintings still remain, depicting scenes from the Buddha’s life and royal devotions. The prasat-style chedis here are adorned with elaborate mandapas and tall superstructures, while the rear niches enshrine Buddha images in the Naga Prok (protected by serpent) posture—masterpieces of Sukhothai art.

 

Given its scale and location, many historians agree that Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo could not have been a commoners’ temple but was closely associated with the royal court. King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), in his work Travels in Phra Ruang’s City, suggested that the temple might have been built by a royal princess, daughter of King Maha Thammaracha, or perhaps as a memorial dedicated to members of the royal family.

 

The temple’s outstanding feature is the coexistence of various artistic traditions within one compound—graceful Sukhothai art alongside the powerful forms of Srivijaya influence, blended with stylistic elements from Sri Lanka and Bagan. This cultural synthesis reflects the city’s role as a vibrant hub of religious devotion and cross-cultural exchange during the Sukhothai period.

 

Today, Wat Chedi Chet Thaeo remains a major cultural and historical attraction in Sukhothai. Visitors to Si Satchanalai Historical Park are drawn to its orderly rows of chedis, the rich variety of architectural styles, and the atmosphere of the ancient city that still narrates its glorious past. More than just an archaeological treasure, the temple serves as an inspiration for those interested in history, religion, and Thai cultural heritage.