The Reconstruction of The Three Santuary Towers: Case study of Prasat Pueai-Noi, Khon Kaen Province.

Abstract

This paper presents the Reconstruction of the three sanctuaries using a case study of Pueai-Noi sanctuary. This study employs both physical surrounding field work and relevant document data. Results reveal that Pueai-Noi sanctuary is a large local sanctuary which was built during the Baphuon Period to Angkor Wat Period (16^th-17^th Buddhist era). Its architectural model contains a group of three sanctuaries which are situated on the same platform and have the main entrance on the East. The wall was built by bricks and aimed to be bearing wall. Similarly, elements of the top sanctuaries can be inferred that it was built by bricks. The top sanctuaries composed of three reducing tiers. The reducing tiers have the model of the sanctuaries at all four corners.  Carved stone Lower god images were decorated around. Also, it is believed that carved stone lotus image was situated on the top. This study also reveals that Pueai-Noi sanctuary was built based on the concept of Kailasha Mountain of Shiva god. The three sanctuaries were dedicated respectively to Trimurtis god. In addition, it has many holy images in this site around the sanctuary, such as Indra and Planet gods. These holy images represent interweaving between Hinduism and Buddhism.