Wat Si Chum, Sukhothai

Wat Si Chum is an ancient site located within the Sukhothai Historical Park. It houses a large Buddha statue in the posture of subduing Mara, known as "Phra Achana." The statue is enshrined within a mandapa, which was constructed during the reign of King Ramkhamhaeng and is mentioned in the first Sukhothai stone inscription. The mandapa measures 32 meters on each side and features a staircase built into the left wall leading up to the roof. The tunnel walls are adorned with ancient paintings, though most have faded over time. These paintings are nearly 700 years old. The ceiling of the walls contains slate panels engraved with line drawings depicting various Jataka tales, making it one of the oldest examples of Thai mural art from the Ayutthaya period. The temple underwent major restoration during the reign of King Lithai and has been maintained and restored over the years. It is believed to have been abandoned during the late Ayutthaya period. However, during the reign of King Rama IX, a restoration project was initiated, turning the site into a historical attraction for future generations to study and visit.