Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace, located in Bago, Myanmar, stands as a remarkable testament to the grandeur and power of the Taungoo Dynasty. The original palace, built in 1556 by King Bayinnaung, was one of the most magnificent royal palaces of its time. Although it was destroyed in 1599, the palace has been meticulously reconstructed in the 1990s. The current palace, a stunning reproduction of the original, provides a glimpse into the splendor of the second Burmese Empire. Today, it is one of Myanmar's premier historical attractions.

Historical Background of Kanbawzathadi Palace

King Bayinnaung and the Taungoo Dynasty

• King Bayinnaung is widely regarded as one of the greatest rulers in Burmese history. His reign (1551–1581) marked a period of territorial expansion, making the Taungoo Dynasty the largest empire in Southeast Asia at its height. Bayinnaung’s military conquests extended Burmese control over large parts of present-day Myanmar, Thailand, and parts of China.
• The palace was part of Hanthawadi (modern-day Bago), the capital he founded, designed to reflect the power and prosperity of his kingdom. It was strategically placed at the heart of the city, which was protected by 20 city gates and surrounded by massive walls.
• King Bayinnaung was also a devout Buddhist, and his reign saw the acquisition of many sacred relics, including the famous Buddha tooth relic from Sri Lanka, which was enshrined in the Mahazedi Pagoda in Bago.

The Original Palace (1556–1599)

• The original Kanbawzathadi Palace was built in 1556 with 76 apartments and halls, sprawling over a vast area of 70 acres. The palace complex was intricately designed, with buildings and halls dedicated to various royal functions.
• The palace was renowned for its opulence, with much of the architecture and interiors gilded in gold. Visitors, including European travelers, marveled at the grandiosity of the palace. The Great Audience Hall, where the King met with ministers and dignitaries, was said to be covered in gold plates on its roof.
• Royal symbols, including white elephants, sacred relics, and thrones, decorated the palace. The throne rooms were designed with different thrones for varying occasions.

Destruction of the Palace (1599)

• In 1599, during a period of military conflict, the palace was looted and destroyed by fire, leaving only ruins behind. The destruction of the palace marked the decline of the second Burmese Empire. The site was left abandoned for centuries, and the palace remained in a dilapidated state until the late 20th century.

Reconstruction of the Palace (1990–1992)

The palace was reconstructed from 1990 to 1992 based on archaeological findings and historical records. The project was initiated to preserve the history and cultural heritage of the Taungoo Dynasty.

Archaeological Excavations

• Excavations began in 1990, revealing the brick foundations of the palace buildings. Archaeologists also unearthed 16th-century teak pillars, Buddha statues, and inscriptions in Mon script that provided vital insights into the palace’s original design.
• Six mounds were excavated, uncovering the remains of palace structures, and several hundred teak logs were recovered, many of which were inscribed with the names of donors who contributed to the original construction.

Reconstruction Process

• The palace was rebuilt using these excavated foundations, with a focus on recreating the original design as accurately as possible. The Great Audience Hall, the largest building in the complex, was restored as the central feature of the new palace.
• While much of the original furniture and royal items were lost in the fire of 1599, replicas of important items, such as the royal thrones and golden coach, were made for display.

Key Features of Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace

The Great Audience Hall (Royal Lion Throne Hall)

• The Great Audience Hall was the largest and most important structure in the original palace. It was used for official ceremonies, where King Bayinnaung received his ministers and important guests.
• The hall is also known as the Royal Lion Throne Hall, because it housed the Thihathana Throne, also called the Lion Throne. This throne, made from gilded hardwood, is one of the most famous artifacts of the palace.
• Teak Pillars: During excavations, 167 teak pillars were discovered, some of which are inscribed in Mon. These pillars are now displayed in the reconstructed hall, and they are considered some of the finest examples of 16th-century Burmese craftsmanship.
• Gold Interiors: The hall’s interior is completely covered in gold paint, giving it a stunning and regal appearance. A replica of the Lion Throne and 16th-century teak logs are showcased here.

Bhammayarthana Throne Hall (Bee Throne Hall)

• The Bhammayarthana Throne Hall was where the King’s private chambers were located. This ornate building contained the royal bedchamber and living room.
• The hall’s design includes multiple roof layers and false floors to add an element of mystery and exclusivity to the King’s private space. It is topped with a Pyatthat, the iconic seven-tiered roof often found in Burmese royal architecture.
• The hall also served as the place for private meetings and intimate gatherings with the royal family.

Royal Thrones

• The palace originally housed nine royal thrones, each representing a different motif for use on specific occasions. However, most of these thrones were destroyed during the fire in 1599.
• The Thihathana Throne (Lion Throne) is the only surviving throne. This gilded throne, decorated with lion carvings, is now displayed at the National Museum in Yangon.
• The Lion Throne is considered one of the most important and symbolic artifacts of the palace, representing the power and majesty of King Bayinnaung.

Reproductions and Exhibits

• Visitors to the palace can see replicas of significant royal artifacts, including a golden coach decorated with peacock motifs. This coach is similar to the one used by the King for royal processions.
• Teak pillars, many of which are inscribed with the names of donors from the original palace, are displayed in various halls.

Nandawya Research Museum

• Situated on the palace grounds, the Nandawya Research Museum houses artifacts uncovered during excavations. The museum showcases:
  • 16th-century teak pillars inscribed with Mon script.
  • Pottery, coins, and glazed jars that provide insight into the trade and economy of the period.
  • Ancient weapons such as swords and spears, as well as ceremonial items from the royal court.
  • A collection of Buddha images in Mon, Siamese, and Burmese styles.

The museum serves as an educational center for visitors who want to learn more about the history of the second Burmese Empire and the legacy of King Bayinnaung.

Visiting Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace

Location

• The Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace is located in Bago, Myanmar, to the south of the famous Shwemawdaw Pagoda.
• The palace is east of NH1 National Highway, making it easy to access from the downtown area of Bago.

Transportation

• Trishaws are the most common means of transport to the palace from the city center. The fare is approximately 1000 Kyats.
• It is also possible to visit Kanbawzathadi Palace as part of a tour in Yangon or Bago, enriching the experience by learning about the region’s rich history.

Opening Hours and Entrance Fee

• Opening Hours: The palace is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding national holidays and Buddhist holidays.
• Entrance Fee: The entry fee for the palace is 4 USD per person. Note that the Bago Archaeological Zone ticket is not valid for entry to the palace.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Kanbawzathadi Palace, consider exploring other historic landmarks in Bago:

• Shwemawdaw Pagoda: A massive and revered pagoda, known for its towering golden stupa.
• Kyaikpun Pagoda: Famous for its four giant Buddha statues seated in a row, this pagoda is a unique and iconic attraction in Bago.
• Shwethalyaung Buddha: The largest reclining Buddha in Myanmar, located just a short distance from the palace.

The Kanbawzathadi Golden Palace is not only a remarkable historical site, but it also serves as a cultural and educational hub that illuminates the legacy of one of Myanmar’s greatest kings. The palace’s opulent design, magnificent replicas, and archaeological discoveries make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Burmese history, architecture, and royal heritage.