This seemingly charming pagoda is located in the middle of the village of Kompong Khleang in rural Cambodia. The ornately carved rooftiles and spires glistened in the sun as we climbed the cracked stone steps leading up to the front entrance, which is brightly painted with depictions of Heaven and disturbing and horrible images of Hell.
Take particular notice of the naked women climbing wickedly barbed trees and the large tub of boiling water, which contains the severed heads of sinners and bodies of men being boiled alive. We were told this mural warns of the dangers of living promiscuous lives. A gruesome reminder indeed.
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This is an intriguing post Carrie. I’d like to learn more about this strange pagoda.
Me too Jo. This is one of the weirdest pagodas in Cambodia without a doubt. I also came across a disturbing pagoda in Luang Prabang, Laos as well. I haven’t been able to find a lot of information on them though. I’m hoping one of my readers might know more than me!
Actually, such painting are relatively common in pagodas across Cambodia. As you mention, they tend to portray tales of morality. Someone put together a book about it. You can find out a little more here.
DAS,
I noticed this at several wats and pagodas while traveling through Cambodia and Laos, but they have remained an elusive mystery to me until now. Thanks so much for the awesome link about wat painting in Cambodia. It’s very interesting.