Phra Prang Sam Yot
Lopburi's most famous landmark is this classic Bayon-style Khmer shrine, whose three prangs symbolize the sacred triad of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. It was originally built in the 13th century by King Jayavarman VII of the Khmer Empire, but was later converted into a Buddhist temple by King Naraj. A stucco image of the Buddha sits serenely before the central prang. The most memorable aspect of the monument is its hundreds of resident monkeys, including mothers and nursing babies, wizened old males, and aggressive youngsters. Hold tight to your possessions, as the monkeys steal everything from city maps to cameras. Most tourists wind up having a blast with the monkeys, though. Approach them and stand still for a minute, and you'll soon have monkeys all over your head, shoulders, and just about everywhere else—a perfect photo op.
