Thatbyinnyu

Thatbyinnyu Temple is a Buddhist temple located in the ancient city of Bagan, Myanmar. Construction of the temple began in 1144 AD during the reign of King Alaungsithu of the Pagan Empire. The name "Thatbyinnyu" translates to "omniscience" or "knowing everything," reflecting the temple's dedication to the omniscient Buddha. It is one of the most imposing structures in Bagan, characterized by its impressive height and the two distinct tiers of its structure.

The temple stands at 201 feet (61 meters) tall, making it one of the tallest in Bagan. Its architecture is notable for its two-story design. The lower story is a solid mass with a central passage, while the upper story is more open and contains two superimposed sanctuaries. The exterior of Thatbyinnyu features an unusual combination of styles, with elements of both Mon and Indian influences. It is constructed primarily from brick, a common building material in Bagan temples.

Inside, the temple once housed a large Buddha image. Though the original image is no longer present, the architecture itself is considered a significant example of Bagan-era temple construction. The temple's sheer scale and strategic location on a slightly elevated mound have made it a prominent landmark visible from many parts of the Bagan archaeological zone. Despite damage from earthquakes over the centuries, Thatbyinnyu remains an important religious site and a popular destination for tourists visiting Bagan. It is a testament to the architectural and artistic achievements of the Pagan kingdom.