Culture
Ancient Buddha Statue Discovered in Buriram Temple
Residents in Buriram province have uncovered a long-hidden, potentially 250-year-old Buddha statue while cleaning an abandoned temple.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, residents in the Thawon sub-district of Buriram’s Chaloem Phra Kiat district recently discovered an ancient Buddha statue while cleaning the abandoned ordination hall (ubosot) of Wat Sirisukharam. The discovery gained public attention after a local social media user shared footage of the site, prompting visitors and history enthusiasts to travel to the temple to pay their respects.
Local accounts suggest the statue has been part of the community for generations, with elders noting its presence since their own childhoods. While some residents believe the bronze statue dates back to the late Ayutthaya period—potentially making it nearly 250 years old—its exact age and historical origin remain unconfirmed. The temple, which had been closed and unused for a significant period, is now undergoing a community-led restoration effort to improve the site's condition.
For travelers and residents interested in Thai history, this site offers a glimpse into local heritage. However, it is important to note that the statue is currently awaiting formal archaeological assessment to verify its age and historical significance. Visitors are encouraged to respect the site as it undergoes these initial preservation efforts by the local community.