Kanbawzathadi Palace
Bago
Kanbawzathadi Palace, located in Bago, Myanmar, is a reconstructed royal palace originally built in 1556 for King Bayinnaung of the Taungoo dynasty. The original palace was an extensive complex with 76 apartments and halls, reflecting the wealth and power of the second Burmese empire. It was destroyed by fire in 1599 during armed conflict and remained in ruins for centuries. Excavations in 1990 uncovered foundations and hundreds of teak pillars, many inscribed with Mon texts, which informed the faithful reconstruction completed in 1992. The palace complex includes the Great Audience Hall, known for its gold-painted interior and the Royal Lion Throne Hall, where the king held court. The Bhammayarthana Throne Hall housed the king's private quarters, featuring a distinctive seven-tiered Burmese roof called Pyatthat. The palace offers visitors insight into Burmese royal architecture and culture, with replicas of royal thrones and displays of original artifacts such as teak pillars, pottery, and Buddha images. The on-site Nandawya research museum further enriches the experience by exhibiting excavation finds and historical information about the empire. Kanbawzathadi Palace stands as a symbol of Burmese heritage and the grandeur of King Bayinnaung's reign.
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Tip: The best time to visit Kanbawzathadi Palace is during the dry season to fully enjoy the outdoor palace grounds. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid queues. Visitors should allocate sufficient time to explore both the palace and the on-site museum. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the complex's history and architecture.
Interesting facts
- •The original palace had 76 apartments and halls, reflecting its vast scale.
- •The Great Audience Hall was roofed with gold plates and featured the famous Lion Throne.
- •167 teak pillars were found during excavations, with 135 inscribed in Mon language.
- •Only one of the nine original royal thrones, the Thihathana or Lion Throne, survived the fire and is now displayed in Yangon’s National Museum.
- •The palace was part of the capital city Hanthawadi, founded by King Bayinnaung, which had 20 gates and was heavily fortified.
History
Kanbawzathadi Palace was originally constructed starting in 1553 for King Bayinnaung, a powerful ruler of the Taungoo dynasty who established the second Burmese empire.
The palace was part of the capital city Hanthawadi, now modern Bago, which was fortified with walls and gates.
The original palace was lavishly decorated and included multiple royal halls and private chambers.
In 1599, during a period of armed conflict, the palace was looted and burned down, leading to its abandonment.
It remained in ruins until excavations began in 1990, revealing foundations and original teak pillars.
The palace was reconstructed between 1990 and 1992, following the original design based on archaeological evidence and historical records.
Place Guide
Great Audience Hall (Royal Lion Throne Hall)16th century
The largest building in the palace where King Bayinnaung received ministers and officials. It features rows of large teak pillars, many inscribed in Mon, and a gold-painted interior. A replica of the Lion Throne and original 16th-century teak logs are exhibited here.
Bhammayarthana Throne Hall (Bee Throne Hall)16th century
The king’s private quarters including the royal bed and living chambers. This ornate building has multiple roof sections topped with a seven-tiered Pyatthat roof, characteristic of Burmese royal architecture.
Nandawya Research MuseumModern museum built post-1990 excavations
Located on the palace grounds, this museum displays artifacts uncovered during excavations, including original teak pillars, pottery, ancient coins, and a collection of Buddha images in Mon, Siamese, and Burmese styles.
