Dhammayangyi Temple

　　Dhammayangyi Temple is a Buddhist stupa located in Bagan, built between 1167 and 1170 by the then-ruler Narathu, who murdered his father and elder brother to seize the throne. He constructed this, the largest temple in Bagan, as atonement for his sins.

　　It is the widest religious structure in Bagan and an outstanding example of brick stupa architecture. The red-brick temple can be seen from all directions in Bagan. The stupa is incredibly sturdy — legend has it that if a needle could be inserted between two bricks during construction, the mason would be executed. Perhaps due to Narathu’s harsh demands, the stupa still stands firmly and immovably to this day. However, Narathu never completed this magnificent temple, as he was assassinated before its completion. Dhammayangyi Temple is hailed as the “pyramid of Bagan.” Its arches interlock in a unique formation, and natural light streams through the windows in the corridors, illuminating the interior.

　　Strangely, the central shrine of Dhammayangyi Temple had its interior filled with broken bricks and rubble centuries ago. Three of its four chambers were packed with debris, and the reason for this remains a mystery to this day, waiting to be uncovered by future generations.

　　Dhammayangyi Temple Reason to visit: The most outstanding example of brick stupa architecture in Bagan Continent: Asia Country/Region: Myanmar Province/State: Mandalay Region City: Bagan