Buddhist architecture in Western style 📍

"Wat Niwet Thammaprawat Ratchaworawihan" represents Buddhist architecture in a Western style and a confluence of religion, art, and culture.

Wat Niwet Thammaprawat Ratchaworawihan is located on an island in the Chao Phraya River, opposite Bang Pa-In Palace in Ayutthaya Province. It is one of Thailand's most distinctive Buddhist temples, designed in the European Gothic Revival style while retaining the essence of Buddhism. This reflects the era when Siam was embracing Western civilization under King Rama V.

Designed by Italian architect Joachim Grassi, the temple boasts a beautiful and distinctive ubosot (ordination hall).

▪️ The Gothic Revival structure features lancet arch windows and doorways.

The exterior walls are decorated with geometric stucco and stained glass.

▪️ The spire at the apex of the building is a key feature of the Gothic style, often used in Christian churches to symbolize the connection between the human world and heaven.

▪️ Inside the ubosot (ordination hall), the Phra Phutthanirumala Thammaphos statue is enshrined above an altar designed in the style of a Christian altar, but adapted to serve as a Buddhist throne.

▪️ The use of stained glass windows, commonly found in Christian churches, contrasts with typical Thai temples, which emphasize painted patterns or wood carvings.

For those interested in art, culture, and architecture, Wat Niwet Thammaprawat is a must-see.

📍Location: Wat Niwet Thammaprawat Ratchaworawihan (Ban Len Subdistrict, Bang Pa-in District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province)
⏰️ Opening Hours:
Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday-Sunday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

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