Architecture of Faith and Bangkok’s Enduring Legacy
TravelLikeTheWind : Suchart Chooleee
When speaking of Rattanakosin (Old Bangkok), one iconic landmark stands tall in the heart of the city — The Giant Swing. Painted in striking vermilion red, this towering structure stands before Wat Suthat Thepwararam, serving as a symbol of Thailand’s religious traditions and cultural roots.
The Giant Swing was originally constructed in 1784 during the reign of King Rama I, based on Brahman beliefs that a sacred structure should stand at the “navel of the city” — the spiritual center of the capital. This grand swing played a central role in the royal Triyampawai Ceremony, a ritual honoring three Hindu gods: Shiva, Ganesha, and Vishnu. The ceremonial act expressed gratitude and sought blessings for peace and prosperity.
The initial structure featured tall wooden pillars rising from a round concrete base, along with intricately carved wooden panels and mandala-shaped support posts, all painted in a majestic red hue. In 2007, golden teak from Phrae province was used to construct a new version after the original became structurally unsound. A lightning rod was installed to ensure greater protection and longevity.
Thailand’s Fine Arts Department recognized the architectural and historical importance of The Giant Swing by declaring the monument a national heritage site in 1949. More than 238 years after its original construction, the landmark continues to stand as a proud testament to Bangkok’s spiritual heritage.
Just behind The Giant Swing rises Wat Suthat Thepwararam Ratchaworamahawihan, one of the most venerated royal temples in Bangkok. The temple’s construction began during the reign of King Rama I under the original name Wat Maha Suthawat. Plans for the site envisioned a spiritual anchor for the capital. The principal Buddha image, Phra Si Sakyamuni—also called “Phra To”—was transported from Sukhothai and originally stood in the open air before being enshrined within the temple grounds.
King Rama II furthered construction and personally carved the main hall’s central wooden doors, showcasing royal craftsmanship. These doors are now safeguarded within the National Museum.
Completion of the temple occurred during the reign of King Rama III, who elevated the site to royal status and gave it the name Wat Suthat Thepwararam Ratchaworamahawihan. Additional structures, including the ordination hall, sermon hall, monastic residences, and sacred spaces, were also developed.
Kings Rama IV and Rama V later oversaw significant restoration efforts to maintain the temple’s grandeur. In 1950, the royal relics of King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII) were enshrined in front of the Phra Si Sakyamuni image. Commemorative rites continue to be held every year on June 9th in remembrance of the beloved monarch.
Acknowledgment of Sources and Image Credits:
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“Swing Ceremony” — a former royal ritual not as deadly as commonly believed?
Read the original article at: Silpa-Mag -
The Giant Swing as part of the ceremonial swing ritual (Lo Ching Cha)
Source: Fine Arts Department of Thailand
Thank you to the original sources for the information and images used.
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