The Temple of Dawn (Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan), also known as Wat Arun or Wat Jaeng, is an ancient temple dating back to the Ayutthaya period. Located on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River, it was originally called Wat Makok or Wat Jaeng. During the reign of King Rama II (Phra Phutthaloetla Naphalai), the temple was renamed "Wat Arun Ratchawararam".
The most prominent architectural feature of Wat Arun is its prang, a large Khmer-style prang consisting of a central prang and four smaller prangs. The prang has been continuously restored, as the original prang, built during the Sukhothai period, was only 16 meters tall. King Rama II ordered the demolition of the original prang and the excavation of the foundation, but he passed away before the work was completed. King Rama III (Phra Nangklao Chao Yuhua) continued the construction, which was finally finished in 1851, taking a total of nine years.
The Temple of Dawn's prang has been continuously restored throughout history. During the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), a major restoration project was undertaken. The prang is constructed of brick and mortar, adorned with seashells, glazed tiles, and colorful Benjarong porcelain plates depicting floral, foliage, and other motifs, primarily sourced from China. Additionally, the prang is embellished with sculptures of Kinnara, Kinnari, giants, angels, and Garuda. The uppermost point of the prang is crowned with a Nophaphon.
The most recent restoration began in late September 2013 and was completed in August 2017, taking approximately five years. A grand ceremony will be held from December 27, 2017, to January 5, 2018, for a total of ten days and ten nights.
The renovated spire of Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan in August 2017.
Sculptures of angels and Kinnari adorning the main prang.
Giant sculptures adorning the main prang.
The Buddha statue enshrined on the prang.
The Buddha statue enshrined below.
The eastern entrance of the ordination hall, featuring the giant sculptures of Ravana (green) and Sahasadecha (white) guarding the doorway.
Monument of King Phutthaloetla Naphalai, Rama II
The prang on the bank of the Chao Phraya River
Sunset at Wat Arun
Evening atmosphere at Wat Arun
Transportation:
- Boat: Take a ferry across the river from Tha Tien Pier.
- Bus: Bus lines 19, 57, and 83 pass by Wat Arun.
Information from Wikipedia.
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