Those who look at the glossy pictures of Thailand will surely have come across it. The statue is now world famous and you can see it in real life in Ayutthaya at the Wat Phra Mahathat.
The Wat Phra Mahathat (Temple of the Great Relic) is one of the oldest temples in Ayutthaya (late 14th century). The temple was the center of religious ceremonies and a tribute to King Ramesuan, who lived from 1388 - 1395. The temple was also his residence. The temple is known for its enormous 'prang' of laterite, which originally was 46 meters high. The 'prang' collapsed later but the foundations are still surrounded by some restored 'chedi'.
Special is the stone head of Buddha that is overgrown by the roots of an old strangler fig (Banyan). Thais revere this place that they consider sacred. It is now also a hotspot for photographers.