Bangkok: Rain has revitalized the 800-year-old ancient Khmer hospital, Prang Khru Buri, and its sacred pond, restoring them to lush greenery and beauty.
According to Thai News Agency, this is the beauty of nature amidst the important historical site of Prasat Khru Buri, or Prang Khru Buri, in Khru Buri District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. This ancient Khmer hospital, approximately 800 years old, is now vibrantly beautiful after the continuous rainy season. The surroundings are lush and green, and the site is well-maintained by officials and local villagers, making it even more stunning than any other time of year. In particular, the pond on the left bank in front of the temple, believed to have been used for sacred rituals, medicinal preparations, and healing - a truly sacred well - is now teeming with small aquatic plants, adding to the lively atmosphere of this historical site.
The Prang Khru Buri, located within the grounds of Ban Khru Buri Nakhon Tham Khositawittayakarn School, was built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, the last great king of the Khmer Empire, as an Arokayasala, literally meaning "pavilion without disease," or a place for treating the sick in those times. Furthermore, several important ancient artifacts have been discovered during excavations, including a statue of the Bodhisattva Vajrapani riding a Garuda, which was created at the same time as the temple. The site underwent a complete restoration in November 2015.