“Temple of a thousand furnaces” is how Wat Phan Tao was known. This hints at its interesting past. Today, we stand before Wat Phatthana Tuayang. It is a place with a rich history. It also holds cultural importance for the people of Chiang Mai.
Wat Phan Tao was once a part of the neighboring Wat Chedi Luang. This was back in the mid-15th century. The name “temple of a thousand furnaces” comes from the many hearths here. These hearths and melting pots were used to cast Buddha images.
Look closely at the wooden assembly hall. It is a rare example of a royal hall. This hall once served as a royal residence. It was also a public hall for Mahotaraprathet. He was the fifth ruler of Chiang Mai from 1846 to 1854. In 1876, the hall was moved to its current spot. Inthawichayanon, the seventh ruler of Chiang Mai, moved it during renovations of Wat Chedi Luang.
Notice the hall’s dimensions. It is 21 meters long, 11 meters wide, and 14 meters high. Twenty-eight wooden pillars support it. Originally, it stood on stilts. It was built in the Central style. But the woodcarvings above the main door and windows showcase the Lan Na style.
Above the main door, admire the carved peacock. It is decorated with glass. This peacock is a symbol of northern nobility. It also represents the last Burmese dynasty. This dynasty was associated with Lan Na from 1752 to 1885.
Below the peacock, there’s a sleeping dog. This dog symbolizes the birth year of the original owner. The principal Buddha image is called Phra Chao Pan Tao. It sits on the main altar. It was cast in 1498.
At the back of Wat Phatthana Tuayang, you will find a bell-shaped pagoda. Smaller pagodas surround it. The temple becomes a focal point during Visakha Bucha. During this festival, monks light many small butter lamps. They place them on the water and around the grounds. It is a beautiful sight. Wat Phatthana Tuayang is also important during the Loy Krathong festival.
In 1975, the temple underwent renovations. The back wall and its foundations were replaced with concrete. This was needed because rain had damaged them. In 2021, the temple closed for repairs. Insects had damaged the wooden structure.
Wat Phatthana Tuayang stands as a testament to Chiang Mai’s history. It has seen rulers, renovations, and countless celebrations. Its beauty lies not only in its structure. It is also in the stories it holds. Take a moment to appreciate the details. Remember the temple of a thousand furnaces. Its legacy lives on in every corner of this sacred space.