Thailand: The temple and pavilions constructed for the cremation ceremony of King Mongkut (Rama IV) in Bangkok in 1868.

Situated in front of the Grand Palace in central Bangkok, this 60m temple was constructed for the cremation of King Mongkut (r. 1851—68) who died of malaria after a trip to Prachuap Khiri Khan province to witness a total solar eclipse. Known as Mount Meru, after the sacred mountain in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology, to symbolise the king's divinity, the temple was decorated in gold and mirror glass, and surrounded by eight spired chedis marking the eight points on the compass. In the foreground of the picture, giant demons protect the entrances to the funeral site.

Copyright:

Supplier: CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Credit:

Pictures From History

Theme:

Old Siam