Chedi Phukhao Thong

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West side of Chedi Phukhao Thong, as seen in 2008
West side of Chedi Phukhao Thong, as seen in 2008

Chedi Phukhao Thong is a 50-metre [1] chedi, or Buddhist tower, in the village of Phukhao Thong near Ayutthaya in central Thailand. Visitors can climb as far a landing halfway up the chedi, from which the surrounding rice fields and the town of Ayutthaya can be seen.

[edit] History

In 1569, having taken Ayutthaya, King Bayinnaung of Hongsawadi (now part of Myanmar) built a large chedi in the Mon style, next to the Buddhist temple of Wat Phukhao Thong, to commemorate his victory. Over the next two centuries the chedi fell into disrepair. In a restoration during the reign of King Boromakot (ruled 1733–1758) a new chedi in Thai style, having a square plan with indented corners, was built on the base of the ruin. [2] The adjacent temple, founded by King Ramesuan in 1387, is still in use.

[edit] References

  1. ^ Gray P, Ridout L, Thailand: The Rough Guide, 3rd edition, Rough Guides Limited, 1998, ISBN 1-85828-341-8
  2. ^ Information panels in the grounds of Wat Phukhao Thong, written by Thai Fine Arts Department, transcribed 2008