Draft:Preah Puth Padima
| Preah Puth Padima | |
|---|---|
| File:Preah Puth Padima Rendering 2023.jpg | |
| Religion | |
| Affiliation | Buddhism |
| Ecclesiastical or organizational status | Under construction |
| Location | |
| Location | Bokor Mountain, Kampot Province, Cambodia |
Invalid designation | |
| Website | |
| preahputhpadima108monbokor | |
Preah Puth Padima is a colossal Buddha statue under construction on Bokor Mountain in Kampot Province, Cambodia. Upon completion, the 108-meter tall statue will be the tallest Buddha monument in Cambodia and one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. The statue is located in the "Veal Srae 500" area within Preah Monivong Bokor National Park.[1]
History
[edit]Construction of Preah Puth Padima commenced on January 4, 2023, with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by prominent government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Chea Sophara, who serves as the Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction.[1] The project was initiated by Neak Oknha Dr. Sok Kong through Sokha Hotel Co., Ltd.[2] The construction is expected to take four years, with completion anticipated in 2027.[3]
Design and Architecture
[edit]The statue's design incorporates elements from traditional Khmer architecture, particularly drawing inspiration from Angkor Wat, which was built during the reign of Suryavarman II in the 12th century.[4] The project has an estimated cost of US$30 million and is being constructed using advanced engineering techniques to ensure its structural integrity and longevity.[1]
Symbolism
[edit]The height of 108 meters was specifically chosen for its significance in Buddhist numerology. The number 108 corresponds to the number of beads on a traditional Buddhist rosary and represents the 108 worldly desires that practitioners seek to overcome on the path to enlightenment.[5]
Religious and Cultural Significance
[edit]The monument is expected to become a significant pilgrimage site for both domestic and international Buddhist practitioners. As part of the construction project, devotees can contribute by purchasing smaller Buddha statues (measuring 0.31m × 0.25m × 0.165m) that will be placed at the base of the main monument. These smaller statues can be inscribed with family names and ancestors, creating a permanent connection between donors and the sacred site.[4][6]
Tourism Impact
[edit]The statue is situated within the Bokor Hill Station complex, which is currently accessible to visitors. Upon completion, Preah Puth Padima is anticipated to contribute significantly to Cambodia's religious tourism sector, adding to the cultural attractions of Kampot Province.[7] The project is part of a larger initiative to develop Bokor Mountain as a major cultural and spiritual destination.[1]
See also
[edit]External links
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b c d "Work gets underway on Bokor Mountain's 108m-high Buddha". The Phnom Penh Post. January 5, 2023. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
- ^ "Minister Attends Groundbreaking Ceremony for Giant Buddha". CNC. January 4, 2023. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
- ^ "Preah Puth Padima 108M Project". Sokha Hotels & Resorts. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
- ^ a b "Preah Puth Padima - Bokor Mountain Buddha Statue". Kampot City Guide. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
- ^ "Cambodia's first largest Buddha focus of Bokor Park festivities". The Asian News Network. January 6, 2023. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
- ^ "Preah Puth Padima 108M Project - Contribution". Sokha Hotels & Resorts. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
- ^ "Cambodia's first largest Buddha focus of Bokor Park festivities". The Asian News Network. January 6, 2023. Retrieved 2024-11-13.