Wat Sam Phraya Worawihan

Deep within Bangkok’s bustling heart lies Wat Sam Phraya Worawihan. A temple whispering tales of devotion and royal patronage. Wat Sam Phraya Worawihan wasn’t always known by this name. It began life as Wat Sak or Wat Bang Khun Phrom. It likely dates back to the Ayutthaya period. The temple we see today rose from the ruins thanks to three brothers. Phraya Raja Supawadee, Phraya Rachikul, and Phraya Thep Worachun. They restored the temple during the reign of King Rama III. These brothers, sons of Mrs. Phawa, had a familial connection to the temple’s origins. Their mother was the younger sister of the original landowners. Upon its restoration, the brothers presented the temple to King Rama III. He christened it “Wat Sam Phraya”, meaning “Temple of the Three Lords”. The king also elevated its status to a royal temple in 1823. Wat Sam Phraya Worawihan houses a magnificent ordination hall. This brick structure boasts a double-tiered roof adorned with Chinese glazed tiles. Inside, the walls bloom with vibrant floral patterns. A golden frieze depicts dragons and phoenixes. The spaces between the windows showcase offering tables in a distinct Chinese style. The main Buddha image, Luang Pho Phra Phutta Keson, resides here. The temple grounds also hold a ceremonial hall, another brick building with a two-tiered roof. It is decorated with Chinese plates and patterns. Scattered within and around the ordination hall are twenty-five stupas, silent sentinels of devotion.