Wat Arun

Bangkok's 'Temple of Dawn' glittering with porcelain/Ancient Structures

Wat Arun Ratchawararam (Temple of Dawn) is a Buddhist temple on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, Thailand. Its central prang (Khmer-style tower) rises 82 meters and is encrusted with colorful porcelain and seashells that catch the first light of dawn, creating a dazzling effect. The temple dates to at least the Ayutthaya period (circa 17th century) but was significantly expanded by King Rama II and Rama III in the early 19th century. Four smaller prangs surround the central tower, and the entire complex covers about 2.1 hectares. The central prang's steep staircase, symbolizing the difficulty of reaching higher spiritual levels, has steps at a 45-degree angle.