History of Ayutthaya - Temples & Ruins

WAT SAPHAN NAK (วัดสะพานนาค)

Wat Saphan Nak or the Monastery of the Naga Bridge is situated on Ayutthaya's city
island in Pratu Chai Sub-district on the property of Ayutthaya Wittayalai School south of
Bu e ng Phra Ram Park.

On the premises of this school we find four other temple sites being Wat Pa Sak, Wat
Mae Nang Muk, Wat Pa Rong and Wat Chatthan. From the last two there are no traces
left, at least above ground level.

The monastery figures on a mid-19th century map under the denomination 'Taphan Nak'
and stood north of Wat Pa Nai. Wat Song Khon was on its east, while Wat Trai T ru e ng
was on its west.

Phraya Boran Rachathanin on his 1926 map adjusted this position in indicating Wat
Saphan Nak just south of Wat Song Khon. The same disposition we find on the later
drafted Fine Arts Department maps.

The monastery was called after a wooden bridge in its vicinity. The Naga Bridge
(Saphan Nak) crossed the canal Lam Khu Pak Sra - Khlong Pratu Thep Mi and was
part of the Thanon Talaeng Kaeng or the Street of the Gallows (or at least part of its
extension), running from the Lam Hoei Bridge (over Khlong P ak Tho) towards the
Chikun Bridge (over Khlong Pratu Jin).

Wat Saphan Nak is indicated on the mid-19th century map north of Talaeng Kaeng
Street and mentioned with two chedis. The foundations of the most eastern chedi likely
disappeared - at least partly - under a modern structure built in situ, parallel with the
remnants of Khlong Pratu Thep Mi.

The site is easily accessible. It features a still standing classic bell-shaped chedi in
Ayutthayan style. The dome rests on an octagonal base. The damaged spire counted
likely 31 rings representing the Thirty-one Planes of Existence and around 25 rings can
still be seen. The throne has been largely damaged, while the brick dome is pierced by
holes dug by looters in search of gold, valuables and relics.

There are signs that the chedi once had been expanded as there is a second layer of
bricks visible around the initial (slender) dome. On the southern side is a kind of bulge, a
possible indication of the former existence of a porch leading to a crypt.

The brick foundations of the monastic structure standing to the east of the chedi are still
visible. The complex was oriented on an east-west axis with the main Buddha image and
the entry facing east. Bricks and roof tiles are scattered over the area. Some bricks have
been gathered and piled up; others are used as decoration around new plantations.

The restored ruin is situated in geographical coordinates: 14° 21' 07.15" N, 100° 33'
53.94" E.