Thon Buri – The Home of Wat Prayoon
A brief history before we proceed
The city of Thon Buri, used to be the metropolis of Thailand after the end of Ayutthaya in 1767. In that period, this city was called Thon Buri Srimahasamut other wise known as Bangkok. During this time village centers were found on both sides of the Chao Phraya River. King Rama I Founded the city of Bangkok on the east side of the river in 1782. Thon Buri was still a separate village until it was then merged into the capital of Bangkok in 1972.
During the reign of King Chairajathirat of Ayutthaya, a canal was constructed as a shortcut when colligating the Chao Phraya River. As a result it became an Acheron although many other parts of the river were narrow. Eventually 2 canals came about the river: the Bangkok – Yai, and the Bangkok- Noi, which made the region start to grow in population. The Chao Phraya River became the main source of transportation in the area and it led villagers and tourists alike to many different places in Thon Buri.
About the temple
Near the banks of the Chao Phraya River, is Wat Prayoon. Wat Prayoon is a temple that was built by King Rama III in the early 19th century. The first thing seen on the temple is a large mound that lies in the middle of a small pond. It is said that the mound was designed by King Rama III when he saw the shapes that wax forms when it drips from a candle. The mound is covered with dozens of various shrines to departed loved ones. There are chedis, spirits, and even an odd doll house. On one side there is a grotto was well. The pond that the mound sits on is inhabited by many turtles. There are several different species of turtles in the pond and you are allowed to feed them only with Papaya and fruits that they sell in the corner of the courtyard.
In the back of the temple you can find a large white chedi in the Ayutthaya style. This is the largest and only chedi of its kind which was finished in the city of Bangkok. King Rama III wanted and tried to build one in the eastern part of the town but the ground couldn’t support it. The chedi later collapsed becoming a big mound now known as the Golden Mount. The chedi is not in very good condition and the entrance to the terrace surrounding it, is permanently blocked off.
History of the temple
Wat Prayoon is south of what used to be a Portuguese community 220 years ago. A 10 minute walk through alleys from Wat Prayoon will lead you to the church of Santa Cruz, which was the heart of the used to be Portuguese community. To get to Wat Prayoon you would have to take the Chao Phraya River Express boat service. You can reach it by alighting at the Memorial Bridge pier and then walking over the bridge to cross the river.
