Wat Benchamabophit, A Sanctuary of Serene Marble Elegance

cnr Th Si Ayuthaya Th Phra Ram V

Combined with western architectural elements

4.3

Introduction

Wat Benchamabophit, also known as the Marble Temple, is a temple located in the northern part of Bangkok city, Sri Ayutaya. It was built in 1899 under the command of King Rama V. The temple complex consists of a main hall, scripture hall, cloisters, pavilions, and a Buddhist university. The main hall is made entirely of imported Italian marble, with orange roofs that beautifully contrast against the white and orange colors. Stone lions guard the entrance of the main hall, carved from marble. Inside the main hall, there is a 3-meter-tall golden Buddha statue of Gautama Buddha, as well as replicas of famous Thai Phra Buddha images. Behind the main hall, there is a large courtyard paved with marble, exhibiting 51 statues representing various periods and styles of Thai Buddhism, blending influences from China, India, and other regions. The temple also displays Buddha statues from China and Japan, including the emaciated Jatamuni Buddha. There is a ticket booth at the entrance, and tickets cost 20 Thai Baht. There is a small river next to the main hall, with bridges and pavilions, as well as a large grassy area. The surrounding area features scripture halls, pavilions, and Buddhist universities. The temple also showcases Buddhist ritual items such as bells and drums in its exhibition halls.