Pyay’s centuries-old Thonpanhla Monastery – famed residence of Inwa-era poet-monk Shin Maha Ratthasara – begins post-earthquake restoration to preserve its sacred legacy.
THE Bago Region government has announced plans to renovate the ancient and historic Thonpanhla Monastery, which was classified as “red” due to damage from the Mandalay earthquake, ensuring that its original appearance is preserved.
The renovation of the ancient two-storey monastery will be undertaken with great care to preserve its original architecture, including the installation of iron pillars to reinforce the doors and windows.
The Thonpanhla Monastery in Pyay Township, Bago Region, is believed to be centuries old and is renowned as the residence of the great poet Shin Maha Ratthasara, a monk during the Inwa era, according to historians.
The monastery is also known for Latheesaekkan, a lake within its grounds, which oral history suggests is the site of the tomb of the renowned Princess Thonpanhla from the Pyu era. — ASH/TH
