The Wat Benchamabophit, or the marble temple, is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in the Dusit district of Bangkok, Thailand. It gleams with its white walls, which were imported from Italy. It is known for being the most modern wat in Thailand. This marvelous temple is also known for its use of European design. It was designed by Prince Narai in 1899. The current king of Thailand spent his days in this Wat before his coronation. Not only is this place a notable temple, but many Buddhist monks who have an interest in learning find this to be a great location for studying.
The Structure
The temple was constructed by the order of King Chulalongkorn after having his palace built nearby. The name of the temple literally means “the Temple of the fifth King located nearby Dusit Palace”. Prince Narai, half brother to the King, was the person responsible for the European influenced design. There are stained-glass windows, which are not a part of traditional Thai design. This is mixed with classic Thai religious architecture. This kind of combination is what makes the temple so unique. Tourists who venture beyond the room known as the “main bot” will be able to see 50 bronze Buddha images which are all uniquely designed.
Modern Times
Wat Benchamabophit is an excellent place for tourists who want to attend religious festivals. It is not like any other temple where the monks stay outside, looking for alms. Instead, they are visited by what people call merit-makers early in the morning. This is when the monks line up at Nakhon Phantom and receive donations. These donations are usually of rice, curry, toiletries, incense and other essentials that they might need. If you visit the temple very early in the morning, you will be able to hear the monks chant beautifully from inside the walls of the wat, which is truly an amazing experience.
