Chedi Phraprathon

"The art of Tawaravadee is considered as the original cultural heritage of the historical era with continuous development in the area of Chao Phraya River Basin, between the 11th and 16th Buddhist centuries. Most of the ancient artifacts, artistic objects, and archaeological sites were predominantly created in association with Theravada Buddhism, although evidence of adherence to Mahayana Buddhism and Hinduism is also evident. The cultural influence of Tawaravadee art spread to other regions including the Northern, Eastern, Northeastern, and Southern regions, hence it can be said that Tawaravadee art is the 'origin of Buddhist art in Siam.' Chedi Phraprathon: Chedi Phraprathon, or Phraprathon Pagoda, is located within the area of Wat Phraprathonchedi, Phraprathon Subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Pathom District, Nakhon Pathom Province. It is an ancient site dating back to the Tawaravadee period. The architectural style of the pagoda is brick construction with a rectangular base. The area around the pagoda is well-planned, with sculptures on the upper part, although the original sculptures have mostly deteriorated over time. However, it is believed that there was once evidence of beautiful and elaborate construction, with many decorative stucco patterns. Some of the artifacts excavated from this area include Buddha statues, votive tablets, and terracotta fragments dating back to the Tawaravadee period. Some of these artifacts are now preserved in the National Museum, Phra Pathom Chedi. During the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV) of the Rattanakosin Kingdom, a replica pagoda was constructed on top of the earthen mound of the ancient Phraprathon Pagoda. The bricks and stucco from the top part of the ancient pagoda were dismantled and used to build this large replica pagoda, following the style believed to resemble the original Phraprathon Pagoda from the previous era, which encases the massive stupa seen today."