MANDALAY, Myanmar - Rows of kyauksa gu, each housing a stone tablet of text, at Kuthodaw Pagoda. Built by King Mindon in 1857 at the foot of Mandalay Hill, Kuthodaw Pagoda houses what is known as The World's Largest Book, which consists of 729 kyauksa gu or stone-inscription caves, each containing a marble slab inscribed on both sides with a page of text from the Tipitaka, the entire Pali Canon of Theravada Buddhism.
The Kuthodaw Pagoda, also known as Maha Lawka Marazein, is a historic Buddhist pagoda located in Mandalay, Myanmar. Constructed during the reign of King Mindon in the late 19th century, the pagoda is renowned for housing the world's largest book. This colossal book comprises 729 white marble slabs, each inscribed with Buddhist scriptures in the ancient Pali language. The texts are collectively known as the Tripitaka or Pali Canon, which is the most sacred scripture in Theravada Buddhism. The Kuthodaw Pagoda features a central golden stupa surrounded by smaller pagodas, each containing one of the marble slabs. The pagoda complex spans across a large area, with numerous pathways and gardens providing a serene atmosphere for visitors. In addition to its religious significance, the Kuthodaw Pagoda showcases traditional Burmese architectural elements, such as the multi-tiered roofs, intricate carvings, and gilded ornamentation. Visitors to the Kuthodaw Pagoda can explore the expansive grounds, admire the architecture, and observe the marble slabs inscribed with the sacred texts. The pagoda is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, and many people come to pay their respects, meditate, and participate in religious activities throughout the year.
Size: 6706px × 4476px
Location: Kuthodaw Pagoda, Mandalay, Mandalay Region, Myanmar (Burma)
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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