Wat Arun, Thailand

Wat Arun, Thailand also known as the Temple of Dawn

Originally known as Wat Makok, meaning ‘the Olive Temple’, Wat Arun was built during the days of the ancient capital of Ayuttaya. Wat Arunratchawararam, shortly called Wat Arun, offers breathtaking views at sunset time from the Bangkok side of the Chao Phraya River. Perhaps owing to this fact, it is also known as ‘the Temple of Dawn’. Stamped on post cards, Wat Arun is an outstanding monument that is worth visiting during a tour to Bangkok.

King Rama II started constructing this majestic temple in early 19th century and later it was completed by Rama III. The central prang built as a Khmer-style pagoda, standing with a height of 80 meters, is the main attraction of Wat Arun. The bell-shaped central prang is said to symbolize the legendary Mount Meru, center of the universe and home of the gods.

Wat Arun is surrounded by four smaller satellite prangs, which are beautifully adorned with seashells, pieces of colored glass and Chinese porcelain. Wat Arun is home to various statues of ancient Chinese soldiers, animals and the Hindu god Indra.

Looking at the two temple guardian figures or the so-called demons at the front side of Wat Arun will enthrall you. Entry is chargeable and the ticket costs around 30 Bahts per person for foreign visitors. There is no entry fee for Thai citizens.

Engelsberg Ironworks in Sweden

Engelsberg Ironworks   Best-preserved example of Swedish ironworks.

Engelsberg Ironworks is a historical industrial complex located in Sweden, which features administrative and residential buildings from the 17th to 19th centuries. This well-preserved example of a traditional Swedish ironworks was built in 1681, and grew into a modern ironworks from 1700-1800. Sweden has long been known for its superior iron, becoming a leader in iron production in the 1700s to 1800s, remaining the economic leader in the iron industry for two centuries.

The ironworks was started by local peasants in the 13th century, alongside their agriculture pursuits. After the water-wheel became used, the iron industry took off in the late Middle Ages, growing rapidly. Pig-iron production, created by primitive smelting furnaces, was initially restricted to peasants.

Production steadily increased and the complex expanded during the 18th century as a result of improving technology. About 50 buildings were built around the complex, some decorated with Gustavian paintings. Houses include the master gardener’s house (built in 1790), a brewery (1829),and an inspector’s house, an office building, stables and smiths’ cottages. The complex provides a picture of the Swedish accomplishments in their historical traditions and equipment as well as the way of life in terms of society and culture in Sweden during this time period. Some of the ironworks machines continue to work today, giving visitors a view into how the mill once functioned.