Overview:

Wat Benchamabophit is a famous Buddhist temple located in Bangkok, Thailand. The temple is also known as the Marble Temple, due to the use of white Italian marble throughout the building. It was built by the Chakri Dynasty's King Chulalongkorn in 1899 and is one of the best examples of Buddhist temple-architecture in Thailand. Wat Benchamabophit is also home to a unique collection of sacred Buddhist artwork including over 500 Buddha images in eight different styles. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Thailand
Prominent Features:

1. Carrara marble - Wat Benchamabophit is known for its impressive galleries and staircases all crafted from exquisite Italian Carrara marble. 2. Central Prang– This iconic spired beacon has become synonymous with Buddhism in Bangkok; it rises majestically in the centre of the wat. 3. Ubosot Hall - This imposing main shrine hall is most likely the most impressive structures in Wat Benchamabophit. It enshrines a stunning Buddha image and its teakwood floors gracefully polished. 4. Beautiful Sculptures - Five galleries of hanging murals and sculptures encircle the Ubosot, featuring detailed stories of the life of the Buddha. 5. Courtyard– This tranquil courtyard is fringed with white-washed walls and lined with exotic flowers. This national monument of Thailand portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Wat Benchamabophit – Bangkok is one of the most important and well-known Buddhist temples in Thailand. It is located in the Dusit district of Bangkok, near the Grand Palace. The temple was built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) of the Chakri Dynasty from 1897- 1901. The temple was initially called Wat Chaeng by the king himself. The temple is a temple complex made up of a Main Prang (prang are spired structures found in temples) and ubosot (ordination hall) that are surrounded by four chedis (stupas). Inside the ubosot is a beautiful image of the Buddha made from marble. There is also a large collection of Buddha’s relics. The ubosot is said to contain a fragment of the Emerald Buddha, which is the palladium of Thai Buddhism. This temple is known for its beautiful Italian marble and intricate designs. The design of the temple was intended to resemble the style of the famous European cathedrals. It is equipped with marble floors, doors, and pillars, as well as, decorations of gold and bronze. There is also a walking bridge that connects the main Prang and ubosot as well as gardens and ponds throughout the temple complex. Today, Wat Benchamabophit remains one of the most important and well-known temples in Bangkok. It is highly revered by locals, and many visitors come here to experience the beauty and history of this important Buddhist temple. You must visit one of these historical places in Thailand on your Thailand tour

Interesting facts:

1. Wat Benchamabophit is one of Bangkok's most beautiful Buddhist temples, known locally as the ‘Marble Temple’ due to its marble facade. 2. This stunning Buddhist temple was commissioned by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) as a grand royal temple. 3. The temple complex includes the main Buddha temple as well as several smaller ones, a library, a pavilion, a Bodhi tree, and other structures. 4. Inside the main temple, there is a large, highly adorned Buddha statue where people come to pay their respects and make offerings. 5. The ornate marble sculptures and carvings on the walls and pillars inside the temple are quite exquisite. 6. Wat Benchamabophit was built in the traditional Thai style, with classic curved roofs and a highly ornamented façade. 7. During certain times of the year, the temple grounds are decorated for important festivals like Songkran and Loi Krathong. Visit one of the famous monuments of Thailand with your friends and family.