Bangkok’s majestic Wat Arun, which means ‘Temple of Dawn’, is counted amongst the Thai capital’s most significant landmarks. Standing on the Chao Phraya River’s west bank this major landmark is a Buddhist temple built in the Khmer style. 
Wat Arun was originally built in ancient times when Ayuthaya was the capital of the Thai kingdom, and was formerly known as the ‘Olive Temple’, Wat Makok. For a brief period of time the temple housed the venerated Emerald Buddha, but the statue was later moved to a different location. King Rama II was responsible for enlarging the central spire and the refurbishment was completed by King Rama III.
In spite of its name, derived from the Hindu god of dawn, Aruna, the shrine is most attractively seen in the sunset hours. Across the river several cafes and restaurants are found which provide splendid views of the temple.
The most prominent feature of the Wat is its central ‘prang’, the word used for a pagoda in the Khmer style. The spire rises a lofty 80 metres high, and is considered to represent the centre of the universe, the mythical Mount Meru.  Visitors may ascend the prang via a number of very steep steps on the exterior, reaching a couple of terraces providing captivating views.
Around the prang’s base you will see numerous sculptures of ancient Chinese style animals and soldiers. Above the second terrace you will see four statues of Indra, the Hindu deity astride his mount Erawan. The corners of the structure are embellished with four secondary prangs which are decorated with pieces of porcelain and seashells.
Adjacent to the prang’s the visitor will see the Ordination Hall, which houses the Niramitr Buddha statue reputedly to have been the design of King Rama II. The entrance of the hall features a roof with a prominent spire, ornamented with stuccowork and coloured ceramic covered with coloured china. In front of the buildings the visitor will see a couple of temple guardian images. With all these attractions the temple is always a pleasure to visit.
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