Wat Ratburana

Wat Ratburana from across the river Wat Ratburana from across the river

Wat Ratburana was built in the early fifteenth century by the king of Sukhothai to house the ashes of two of his brothers, who killed each other fighting over who would succeed him. The ashes are housed, presumably, within the large pagoda, which has a stepped base topped by a classic bell-shaped stupa.

The altar of the prayer hall The altar of the prayer hall

Other structures in the temple include a very old ordination hall with some rather interesting, if badly degraded, murals. There's also a boat used by King Rama IV when he visited the province. The old prayer hall also has a rather odd collection of local antiques, which includes a number of bicycles. Smaller buildings in the compound include an ancient looking drum tower as well as a library, that appeared to be under renovation.