Built in 1391, during the reign of King Saen Muang Ma, 8th ruler of the Mengrai dynasty, Wat Chedi Luang's massive chedi (pagoda) is a distinctive feature of the Chiang Mai skyline. At its peak, the chedi measured 44 meters (144 feet) wide and 86 meters (282 feet) tall and was the home of the Emerald Buddha, Thailand's most sacred cultural treasure. Damaged during an earthquake in 1545, the structure is still impressive with a naga (water serpent) staircase on each of its faces and wonderful statues of elephants adorning the base. Legend has it that if the gum tree just inside the entrance ever falls, a terrible disaster will occur. A special pulley system allows visitors to leave offerings and prayers atop the chedi. The temple is located on Phra Pokklao Road and is easy to find, since the chedi is one of the tallest buildings in the old city.
No comments:
Post a Comment