Mandalay is where Myanmar’s rich cultural heritage can be seen. Many ancient Myanmar wooden monasteries with late Konbaung dynasty’s Inwa, Amarapura and Yadanabon eras’ architectural and construction styles were built in Mandalay. The monasteries were treasured and well maintained and thus can be seen in magnificent forms today just in one place.
The ancient Myanmar people constructed monasteries for monks to live peacefully and conduct their religious duties. The treasured and well-maintained monasteries then became places where ancient traditional architectural and construction styles were retained and preserved together with the teachings and practices of Buddhism, according to the records.
The ancient monasteries are constructed with the style of the monastic building, tier-roofed building, the hall connecting two main halls, main monastic building and storeroom. These wooden monasteries are currently repaired and protected by the monks.
Although many ancient wooden monasteries with ancient artworks can be seen in Mandalay, the model wooden monasteries can be seen in Shweinpin Monastery and Tharkawun monastery of Kinwun Mingyi Monastery in Maha Aungmyay Township, Thingaza Monastery in West Daewun Ward, Bhamo Monastery, Kyay Myin monastery and Yamethin monastery in Aungmyaythazan Township and Maha Min Htin monastery in Chanmyathazi Township. – Min Htet Aung (Mandalay Sub-Printing House)/GNLM
