Economic Factors Affecting the Changes in Temple Architecture in the Reign of King Rama IX

Abstract

Economic factors reflecting the prosperity of foreign trades from the Ayutthaya to the Rattanakosin periods, brought about growth and changes in dwellings. These factors also supported and maintained Buddhism by restoring, reconstructing, and building temples. Traditions changed in the reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Rama IX, due to a capitalist economic system. This system, which has expanded its influence over land use planning, tourism development, and economic revitalization, led to different directions in the development of temple architecture. This article studies the roles of an economic system which affected the design of temple architecture during the Buddhawat area. The research was conducted through case studies of temples which represent the present time.