Wat Arun’s central prang rises above the Chao Phraya River, its surface patterned with ceramic and shell decoration. The temple’s changing names and successive restorations make this skyline landmark a record of Bangkok’s earlier capital on the west bank.
Guide
The central tower of Wat Arun catches light because its surface is assembled from pieces: porcelain fragments and shells set into decorative patterns. The detail reflects Bangkok’s river trade, where Chinese vessels carried ceramics that could be reused after serving as ballast. The temple itself is older than the city’s current royal center.
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UpgradeQuick facts
- The temple site dates to the Ayutthaya period.
- The temple was formerly called Wat Chaeng.
- The central prang’s design represents Rattanakosin-era architecture.
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