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Wat Damrey Sor, also known by its beautiful name "Wat Svet Chhatra Konjor Chey," which may mean "Elephant-White Victory," is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Battambang Province, Cambodia. Along with many other ancient temples in Battambang, Wat Damrey Sor showcases architecture, sculptures, culture, and religion from the bygone era, attracting visitors with their sacred beliefs and rich historical stories.
Wat Damrey Sor (Cre: Cambodian Train)
Wat Damrey Sor was constructed under the patronage of Lady Ing, the chief wife of the Lord of Battambang, Katha Thon Chhum. Lord Katha Thon Chhum had many wives, and he loved Lady Eng, his second wife the most. However, due to distress over her husband's many wives, Lady Eng fell seriously ill. Despite Lord Katha Thon Chhum's attempts to cure her with both traditional and modern medicine, her condition did not improve.
Eventually, Lady Eng prayed to the Black Buddha at Wat Kandal, promising to build a temple at Wat Damrei Sar if she recovered. After she indeed recovered, construction of Wat Damrei Sar began in 1904. Unfortunately, Lady Eng passed away soon after the temple's completion, and her funeral was held in front of Wat Damrei Sar.
History of Wat Damrey Sor (Cre: Sabay News)
Historically, Wat Damrey Sor has served as a sanctuary for poor students from rural villages in the province, who resided there to pursue their education in the city.
In its early days, the temple offered various classes outside of regular school hours. These classes were taught by volunteer members, with senior students or teachers from public schools providing free lessons to support students struggling in traditional public schools.
Wat Damrey Sor is a large temple complex that blends Khmer and Thai architectural styles, reflecting Battambang's history under Thai control from 1795 to 1907. It is a prime example of early 20th-century Buddhist architecture.
When you visit Wat Damrey Sor, you'll be amazed by the temple's intricate design. The main hall has six pillars, a three-tiered roof, and a central stupa. Due to the patron's family, the arches and window frames have detailed carvings of crowns, precious swords, and multiple parasols. The outer walls of the main hall display beautiful scenes from the Ramayana and images of Brahmanic deities, showcasing impressive artistry.
The outer walls of Wat Damrey Sor feature multiple deities (Cre: Sabay News)
What makes Wat Damrey Sor particularly interesting are the vibrant carvings on the lower walls and the ornate windows of the main temple. The upper exterior walls are decorated with exquisite murals made by artists using natural plant colors. Additionally, statues of lions guard the perimeter, and numerous majestic Garuda figures hold up the temple roof with their raised hands.
The lions guarding the perimeter of Wat Damrey Sor (Cre: Hello Angkor)
The ceiling of the temple features depictions of deities inspired by classical European art, showing the influence of Western elements on the temple. This is because, during the time of construction, Lord Katha Thon Chhum had invited Italian artisans from Bangkok to build his residence. Similar classical European deities can also be seen on the ceilings of other temples like Wat Kor and Wat Saom Monas.
Inside the complex are some pillars reaching 8-9 meters, adorned with intricate alabaster carvings. In addition, there is also an original structure which is the main throne, showcasing high craftsmanship in its carvings. Both the columns and the main throne are decorated with small pieces of old blue and silver mirrors, creating a shimmering effect that enhances their beauty. The temple is revered and considered sacred by both Cambodian and Thai worshippers.
The inside Wat Damrey Sor with pillars and depictions of deities (Cre: Pinterest)
Outside the main prayer hall, Wat Damrey Sor has a beautiful garden where visitors can find peace in nature. The garden features lush trees and a main chedi, making it perfect for a place of tranquility. Whether you need a break from the busy city or want to connect with your inner self, the garden of Wat Damrey Sor provides a peaceful retreat.
The garden with the main chedi in Wat Damrey Sor (Cre: Cambodia Trains)
Wat Damrey Sor is a gem that shines bright in Battambang, drawing locals and tourists alike. The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the temple makes this a place where visitors can find tranquility and reflect in a beautiful setting.
Visiting Wat Damrey Sor also offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Khmer culture. You can observe local Buddhist devotees participating in spiritual rituals, offering prayers, and seeking blessings from the monks. The temple also holds lively festivals, featuring traditional dance performances and cultural ceremonies. This experience deeply connects you to the heart and soul of Cambodia.
Wat Damrey Sor is located right next to the Battambang Provincial Museum. To get there, you have a few options:
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How to get to Wat Damrey Sor (Cre: Templeseeker)
Here are some tips for visiting Wat Damrey Sor:
If you're looking for a peaceful retreat away from your busy daily life, Wat Damrey Sor in Battambang offers a unique experience. With its deep history, captivating architecture, and serene gardens, every part of the temple is filled with spirituality and cultural importance.
If you wish to visit Wat Damrey Sor along with other attractions of Battambang, don’t hesitate to contact Asia King Travel. We can assist you on your trip, assuring you have a memorable experience.
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