Centuries whisper from Wat Sao Thong Thong. This shady retreat stands in Bangkok’s bustling heart. Once known as Wat Wang Tawan Tok, it offers a respite from the modern city.
In 1993, Wat Sao Thong Thong gained attention. The temple restored an old Thai wooden house. It served as monks’ quarters called a kuti. The structure featured three houses. They connected via an elevated platform. The house was built between 1888 and 1901. Its finely carved detail panels earned an award. The Architects’ Association of Thailand gave the award for the restoration.
Sadly, the Thai climate poses challenges. Wooden structures require constant upkeep. The award-winning restoration suffered from neglect. Deterioration became evident. You could still see some fine exterior details. But windows were missing. The floor seemed to rot. Now, the building is no longer open to the public.
Elsewhere, Wat Sao Thong Thong has a large leafy compound. Here a thriving amulet market bustles with activity. Further south stands the temple’s ubosot. This ordination hall looks forlorn. It needs repair as much as the old monk’s quarters.
Next to the ubosot sits a small pavilion. Inside is a wooden bed frame. It is called a honeymoon bed. Shutters enclose it completely. Its presence in the temple remains a mystery. Why is it there? Nobody knows.
Wat Sao Thong Thong sits right on Ratchadamnoen Road. It is a short distance from the Bovorn Bazaar. Most central sights are within walking distance. The temple is easy to reach.
Once in Lopburi, the Wat Sao Thong Thong sits on France street. The French name is Thanon Farangset. You’ll find it south of Paulkhon’s residence ruins. It is north of Wat Choeng Tha.
Wat Sao Thong Thong is a major monastery. The city is famous for its monkeys. It has a long history. The main building is a restored Viharn. It was built in King Narai’s era. That was during the 17th century.
Its unique architecture makes Wat Sao Thong Thong special. People visit the Viharn to see its impressive Buddha. This Buddha is nicknamed Luang Po To. The Buddha’s proportions are perfect. Its size is impressive.
Inside the hall, niches hold historical statues. Some statues are Khmer style. They are carved in sandstone. The Ubosot is slightly off-center. It is more recent. But its interior is original. Its collection of statues is special.
Wat Sao Thong Thong welcomed foreigners. The complex includes buildings. These buildings once housed Persian envoys. They housed other foreigners too. This shows the city’s openness. It reflects its welcoming nature. King Narai the Great watched over Ayutthaya.
One building is called Khotchasan. This name comes from Khorassan. Khorassan was an ancient region. It lay northeast of Iran.
Wat Sao Thong Thong blends history and mystery. Its decaying structures tell tales. The amulet market thrives. The honeymoon bed remains enigmatic. This temple offers a glimpse into Thailand’s past. It is a place of contemplation. It is a place of wonder.