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Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan is a Buddhist temple | Bangkok

Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan is a Buddhist temple | Bangkok

One of Bangkok is most recognisable landmarks, Wat Arun (also known as the Temple of the Dawn), is an imposing sight on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. A temple has occupied the site for hundreds of years, but the name and design of the temple has changed a number of times over those years

HISTORY OF WAT ARUN

In 1768, the man who was to become King Taksin travelled to Thonburi from Ayutthaya to establish a new capital on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. According to legend, he arrived just as dawn was breaking at the site of the temple which is known today as Wat Arun. For a while, the temple became the royal chapel and housed the Emerald Buddha. However, it was during the reign of Rama II (1809-1824) that the current design of the temple began to take shape. The temple was further enhanced during the reign of Rama III (1824-1851) and the largest central was extended to the current height seen today.