Wat Anongkharam
Wat Anongkharam Worawihan is a significant royal temple in Bangkok, Thailand, established in 1850 and later renamed by King Rama IV. It holds historical importance as a national historic monument and features traditional Thai architecture with a revered Buddha image.
Key Facts
- ›Established in 1850 and dedicated to King Rama III.
- ›Originally named Wat Noi Khamthaem, founded by Dame Noi.
- ›Renamed Wat Anongkharam by King Rama IV, meaning 'temple of lady'.
- ›Features a sanctuary in the Thai-styled Rama I period architectural style.
- ›Houses Phra Chunlanak, a principal Buddha image in Māravijaya attitude, brought from Sukhothai.
- ›Registered as a national historic monument in 1977 by the Fine Arts Department.
Important Relationships
- King Rama III
- Dame Noi
- Somdet Chao Phraya Borom Maha Phichai Yat (That Bunnag)
- King Rama IV
- Somdet Phra Phutthachan Phutthamahathera (Nuam)
- Princess Srinagarindra
- Sanctuary Built In Thai-Styled Rama I Period
- Principal Buddha Image Phra Chunlanak
- Monk's Dwellings Decorated With Wooden Works
- Collections of Revered Monk Somdet Phra Phutthachan Phutthamahathera 's Belongings
Built In Dedication For King Rama Iii, Renamed Wat Anongkharam By King Rama Iv, Registered As A National Historic Monument
Thai-Styled Rama I Period
About Wat Anongkharam
Wat Anongkharam Worawihan
Wat Anongkharam Worawihan is a significant royal temple located in Bangkok, Thailand. Originally built in 1850 and known as Wat Noi Khamthaem, it was established in dedication to King Rama III. The temple's name was later changed to Wat Anongkharam, meaning "temple of lady," by King Rama IV, acknowledging its founder, Dame Noi, wife of a noble.
Historical and Architectural Significance
The sanctuary at Wat Anongkharam is constructed in the Thai-styled Rama I period, reflecting traditional architectural influences. Inside, it houses a principal Buddha image named Phra Chunlanak. This image, made of bronze and covered in gold leaf, is in the Māravijaya attitude and of Sukhothai style. It was brought to the temple from Sukhothai province in 1949. The temple's cluster of monk's dwellings are noted for their decorative wooden works. In recognition of its historical importance, Wat Anongkharam was registered as a national historic monument by the Fine Arts Department in 1977.
Community and Cultural Context
The community surrounding Wat Anongkharam is also recognized for its historical value. Historically, this area served as a hub for warehouses and factories operated by Chinese and Indian merchants, producing goods such as leather, salt, sugar, fish sauce, and coal. This has resulted in a diverse neighborhood where Buddhist temples, Chinese joss houses, and masjids coexist. Although many of the original businesses have since relocated or closed, remnants like shophouses, antique arched entrances, and charming wooden houses still exist. Furthermore, the area holds personal significance as the childhood home of Princess Srinagarindra, mother of King Rama VIII and King Rama IX, with a Princess Mother Memorial Park located nearby.
Notable Collections
Within the temple grounds, visitors can also find a Bangkok Local Museum for the Khlong San District. A particularly noteworthy collection at the temple includes the daily-used belongings of the revered monk Somdet Phra Phutthachan Phutthamahathera (Nuam). These items are displayed in a monk's dwelling and are made available for public viewing and homage-paying specifically on Buddhist Lent Day and New Year Day.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Wat Anongkharam Worawihan built?
The temple was built in 1850. It was originally known as Wat Noi Khamthaem before being renamed by King Rama IV.
What is the significance of the name Wat Anongkharam?
Wat Anongkharam translates to 'temple of lady'. The temple was renamed by King Rama IV, honoring its founder, Dame Noi.
What is notable about the principal Buddha image at Wat Anongkharam?
The principal Buddha image inside the sanctuary is named Phra Chunlanak. It is a bronze image covered in gold leaf, in the Māravijaya attitude and Sukhothai style, and was brought from Sukhothai province in 1949.
What historical status does Wat Anongkharam hold?
The temple was registered as a national historic monument by the Fine Arts Department in 1977, recognizing its historical and architectural importance.
Are there any specific collections or items of interest at the temple?
Yes, the temple houses the daily-used belongings of the revered monk Somdet Phra Phutthachan Phutthamahathera (Nuam) in a monk's dwelling. These are opened to the public for veneration on Buddhist Lent Day and New Year Day.
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