Wat Ratchaorasaram

Wat Ratchaorasaram: A Royal Temple of Unique Design

Wat Ratchaorasaram, often abbreviated as Wat Ratchaorot, stands as an ancient and historically significant Buddhist temple in Bangkok, Thailand. It holds the distinction of being a first-class royal monastery, a status reflecting its importance and historical ties to the Thai monarchy.

History and Royal Patronage

The temple's origins date back to the Ayutthaya period, and it was originally known by the names Wat Chom Thong or Wat Kong Thong. Its current prominence is largely due to its restoration and renaming by Prince Chetsadabodin, who would later ascend to the throne as King Nangklao (Rama III). During the reign of his father, King Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II), in 1820, Prince Chetsadabodin led Siamese forces to counter a Burmese invasion. While encamped near the temple, then known as Wat Chom Thong, a false alarm led to the army's return to the capital. Following this event, the Prince ordered the temple to be renovated and renamed Wat Ratchaorat, translating to 'the royal son,' thereby dedicating it to his father.

Distinctive Architectural Style

Wat Ratchaorasaram is particularly notable for its striking architectural style, which masterfully harmonizes Thai and Chinese influences. This fusion is evident in its buildings and interiors, with a distinctive lack of traditional Thai ornamentation such as 'cho fah' (Thai gable apex), 'bai raka' (toothlike ridges on gable edges), and 'hang hong' (swan's tail tip on gables). This unconventional approach led some to refer to it as 'Wat Nok Yang,' meaning 'unconventional temple.' The temple's layout and design were considered exceptionally beautiful, even drawing praise from John Crawfurd, Britain's ambassador to King Nangklao's court, who described it as 'the most beautifully built in Bangkok.'

Notable Buddha Images and Features

Within its sacred grounds, Wat Ratchaorasaram houses several significant Buddha images. The principal image in the ubosot (ordination hall) is Phra Buddha Arnunthakhun Ardulyarnbophit, a large seated Buddha measuring 3.15 meters in width and 4.5 meters in height, distinguished by a nine-tiered parasol, a symbol often found in temples housing royal ashes. The vihara (sanctuary) contains Phraphutthasiyard, an impressive 20-meter-long reclining Buddha image crafted from stucco. Inscriptions detailing traditional medicine and massage are mounted on marble plates along its outer wall. Additionally, a northern vihara shelters Phra Si Sanphet, a large standing Buddha image representative of the medieval Ayutthaya period art.