A street divides Wat Amarinthraram Worawihan. This fascinating temple in Bangkok stands proudly. It’s a testament to centuries of faith and resilience.
Wat Amarinthraram Worawihan’s history stretches back to the Ayutthaya period around 1657-58. Though its founder remains a mystery its roots run deep. It was once known as Wat Bang Wa Noi. This name paired it with the nearby Wat Bangwa Yai. The temple’s name changed during King Taksin’s reign in the Thonburi period. It became a royal monastery. King Phutthayotfa Chulalok Rama I gave it its current name. The temple has seen many renovations and additions through the years.
Today Wat Amarinthraram Worawihan holds a special place. It’s a third-rank royal monastery. One of its most captivating features is Luang Pho Bot Noi. This principal Buddha statue stands in a chapel behind the main hall. Its Sukhothai style and Maravijaya pose are breathtaking. Luang Pho Bot Noi gave the temple an unofficial name Wat Luang Pho Bot Noi.
World War II left its mark. Allied bombings heavily damaged the temple. Only the chapel survived. Inside you’ll find a replica of Buddha’s footprint. This is housed in a pavilion. The Fine Arts Department and Crown Property Bureau preserved this in 2010.
Wat Amarinthraram Worawihan has a surprising connection. Chuan Leekpai a two-time Prime Minister of Thailand resided here. This was during his time as a Thammasat University student in the early 1960s. The temple’s location next to Siriraj Piyamaharajkarun Hospital and the Bangkok Noi railway station adds to its unique character. It’s a quiet sanctuary in the heart of Bangkok. Its beauty and history endure. Wat Amarinthraram Worawihan stands as a timeless testament to faith and enduring strength.