Wat Pai Thong

Rating: 3/5 (9 votes)

Operating day: Daily

Operating time: 08.00 - 17.00

 

Wat Pai Thong Sai Thong, Pa Mok, Ang Thong. A beautiful old church. Temple grounds Child Development Center, which is located in the district nursery nearby village. Wat Phai Thong, located in Saithong Subdistrict, Pa Mok District, Ang Thong Province, is a temple rich in history and local legend. This story, passed down from elders to their descendants, recounts an event during the Ayutthaya period when a high-ranking noble visited the area to oversee the well-being of the people. Traveling by boat, an unexpected incident occurred when the oar slipped from their hands and sank into the river right in front of the temple. According to the tale, this oar was made of gold though it is believed that it was likely only partially gilded. This incident gave rise to the name "Wat Phai Thong" (Golden Oar Temple), and the nearby community also became known as Ban Phai Thong (Phai Thong Village) to honor the temple's name.

 

Though the story of the golden oar may be a local legend, it holds significant cultural value as it fosters a strong bond between the temple and the community. Wat Phai Thong thus serves not only as a sacred site but also as a symbol of pride and identity for the people of the area.

 

Aside from its rich legend, Wat Phai Thong is renowned for its ancient and beautifully crafted architecture. The temple’s chapel, believed to have been constructed during the early Ayutthaya period, is over 100 years old. It showcases the distinctive artistry of the Ayutthaya era, with intricate stucco designs and architectural details that are nothing short of remarkable. This temple’s preservation is essential for future generations to witness the elegance and historical significance of the period.

 

The chapel’s design reflects the exquisite craftsmanship of Ayutthaya, especially in its intricately carved stucco patterns. Inside, fragments of murals can still be seen, offering a glimpse into the flourishing artistic heritage of that time, despite their gradual deterioration over the years.

 

Wat Phai Thong is not only significant for its art and history but also serves as a central gathering place for the community. Residents of Ban Phai Thong often come together at the temple during important Buddhist festivals, making it a focal point for religious and communal activities. Whether for merit-making, hosting events, or celebrating traditional ceremonies, the temple remains deeply connected to the lives of the local people.

 

Preserving Wat Phai Thong in its current form is vital, not only because it is a valuable architectural heritage but also because it represents the cultural and spiritual legacy of Ban Phai Thong that should be passed on to future generations.

 

Wat Phai Thong reflects the rich history and culture of the Ban Phai Thong community in every aspect, from the legend behind its name, rooted in faith, to its Ayutthaya-era architecture that deserves preservation. This temple stands as a sacred site, a symbol of pride, and a testament to the deep connection between the community and its cultural heritage.