The Myazedi Pagoda stands majestically in the heart of Bagan's Myingkaba village. Its name, "Myazedi," in Burmese, means "Jade Pagoda" (mya, meaning precious/jade). Although the pagoda itself is now gilded in gold, its true significance lies in its linguistic and historical heritage.

Construction and Historical Context:

• The pagoda was not built directly by King Yazakumar but by Prince Yazakumar in 1112 as a tribute to his late mother and as a memorial to his great father, King Yazakumar, the most important king of the Bagan kingdom.

• The pagoda's structure is a classic bell-shaped stupa of medieval Bagan, situated on a multi-tiered square base. The pagoda is adorned with a golden umbrella (hti) at the top, large guardian chinthes (lions) guarding the main entrance, and sculptures depicting Buddhist stories at the base.

• King Janasitha donated a mango orchard and a number of slaves to Prince Yasakumar before his death. Out of gratitude, Prince Yasakumar built a pagoda and erected a stone inscription to record this charitable act.

Myazedi Inscription:

• The most striking feature of the temple is the Myazedi Inscription, which is now housed in a small defensive building built later next to the pagoda. This inscription is the oldest clearly dated written document in Burma.

• What makes this inscription world-class is that it contains the same text in four languages: Pali, Old Burmese, Old Mon, and Pyu. The Pyu language, the language of the once dominant ethnic group in the region, has since disappeared.

• Because the inscription contains the same text in both known languages ​​(Old Burmese, Pali, and Mon) and an extinct language (Pyu), scholars have compared it to the Egyptian Rosetta Stone, which has become a key to archaeologists' successful deciphering and understanding of the ancient Pyu language. This makes the inscription a cultural asset of immense value for the study of Southeast Asian history and linguistics.

Currently:

• Currently, only a replica of the inscription remains on display in the temple grounds for visitors to view. The original inscription has been preserved at the Bagan Archaeological Museum to protect it from damage.

• Horse-drawn carts: A popular way to explore the temples in Bagan.

• Electric bicycles (E-bikes): A convenient and quick option for exploring the area.

• Rental car with driver: For a more comfortable journey.

• Dress appropriately: Bagan is a sacred area. Shoes and socks must be removed before entering the temple grounds. Clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended.

• Bring a flashlight: Some temples have dimly lit corridors or murals inside. A flashlight will help you see the details clearly.

• Visit the inscriptions: Don't miss a visit to the small room housing the Mya Sedi inscriptions to see the "Rosetta Stone of Burma" for yourself.

• When to visit: Visit during the day, as the area becomes quite dark after sunset.

Admission Fees:

• There is no admission fee to Mya Zedi Pagoda alone, but visitors must pay the Bagan Archaeological Zone Fee, which is the only ticket valid for all temples in the area.

Opening Hours:

• Open daily, but generally open at any time, but it is recommended to visit during the day, as there is no lighting system after sunset.