Ayutthaya's Beautiful Treasure: Wat Phra Sri
AYUTTHAYA'S BEAUTIFUL TREASURE
WAT PHRA SRI SANPHET
Located in Ayutthaya's World Heritage Park in Pratu Chai Sub-district, this beautiful temple is a symbol of Ayutthaya and was built by King Boromatrailokanat in 1448. The temple was firstly built in the purpose of King Boromatrailokanat's private chapel with no monks lived there, which were exclusively used for royal ceremonies and rituals.
Two pagodas then were built following the death of King Boromatrailokanat, not long after that, the third pagoda was added to hold the remains of Ayutthaya's kings. Moreover, three large chedis (a mound-like or hemispherical structure usually containing sacred relics) were built to contain the ashes of King Boromatrailokanat and his two sons, King Ramathibodhi and King Boromatrailokanat II. The Chedi is built in a classic Ceylonese design, similar to a bell.
In 1499, a 16-meter high standing Buddha was built, known as Phra Buddha Chao Si Sanphet, covered in 150kg of gold, was built as the main viharn (hall of worship). Sadly, the Buddha was smashed to pieces along with the gold being melted down when the Burmese conquered the city. Here, the gold and other valuable artefacts were taken. Subsequently, the Buddha and what its left was moved to Wat Pho during the establishment of Bangkok as the new capital during King Ramathibodhi's rule.
Finally, the temple was renovated under King Borommakot in 1740 with the remaining ones of the three Chedis that can be seen today.
References:
The night scene photo of the temple brought out the glow! It was majestic and grand! Hope that can give you ideas on your designs and concept. :)
ReplyDelete