Culture
Ancient Buddha Statue Discovered in Buriram Temple
Residents in Buriram have flocked to a long-abandoned temple to pay respects to a newly rediscovered Buddha statue believed to date back to the late Ayutthaya period.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, residents in the Thawon sub-district of Buriram province have gathered to worship an ancient Buddha statue found within the abandoned ordination hall of Wat Sirisukharam. The discovery occurred after local villagers organized a cleanup effort to restore the neglected site, which had been closed for an extended period.
Local accounts suggest the statue is a bronze figure dating back approximately 250 years to the late Ayutthaya period. While the exact age remains unverified, the statue has long been a subject of local reverence, with generations of villagers recalling its presence since their childhood. The site has recently gained significant attention on social media, drawing history enthusiasts and locals alike to visit the temple.
For travelers and residents, this discovery highlights the rich, often hidden historical heritage embedded in rural Thai communities. While the site offers a glimpse into local history, it is important to note that the temple is not a formal tourist attraction, and the historical dating of the statue is based on local belief rather than official archaeological certification. Visitors should remain respectful of the site’s sacred status and the ongoing efforts by the community to maintain the area. Further investigation by cultural authorities may be required to confirm the statue's historical origins and age.