Wat Nuea is the oldest temple in Roi Et province, located on Sena Rerk Khit Street in the historic district of the city. This temple has historical evidence of an ancient community that dates back over a thousand years, attributed to the nickname "Wat Nuea is accompanied by Wat Klang in the city," as Wat Nuea was established when Roi Et was still a small village known as Ban Kum Hang, while Wat Klang was built when Roi Et had developed into the prosperous city of Saket Nakhon. Historical evidence shows remnants of an ancient octagonal stone pillar (dating back 3,000 years) that stands 1.5 meters tall, resembling a Shiva Lingam from Brahminism. At its base, there are inverted lotus petal designs inscribed with Pallava script from the Gupta period of India, corresponding to the Dvaravati period in Thailand. The inscription reads "Punṇadhammāṇṭha," indicating that it was created by a benefactor known for their virtuous deeds. Inside the temple, there is also a 200-year-old "Sim Isan," influenced by the Lan Chang style (called Sim Maha Uṭ), which features a low, wide structure with sealed windows, making it a unique sight. In addition to the central Naga Buddha statue, visitors can walk into the main hall, surrounded by a curved balcony. An interesting point of focus is an ancient stone pillar that initially may not catch one's attention but becomes significant upon reading the small plaque beside it. This pillar is a crucial artifact of Wat Nuea. Crafted from laterite in various shapes - round, square, and octagonal - the pillar is inscribed with Southern Indian Pallava script from the early Dvaravati period of the 14th century. One part of the inscription states "Punnamaññā," which refers to an individual or creator of meritorious actions or one who built the pillar as a representation of a sacred boundary. This relic was discovered on August 29, 1985, during excavations at Kham Sra Hang, at the sidewalk in front of the house of Khun Choi Yothayut on Sena Rerk Khit Road in Roi Et city. It is believed that this pillar may have once marked the city limits or the sacred grounds of a Buddhist site. The octagonal pillar measures 25 cm wide and 2.5 meters tall, adorned with five rows of inscriptions at its base.
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North Temple, Roi Et
Province: Roi Et
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056-481-660