
The Shwezigon Pagoda is situated in Nyaung U, close to Bagan. This 11th Century pagoda is totally gold plated. Except for the red door at the top of the red staircase. It was the centre of “Nat” worship in Bagan prior to the advent of Buddhism. There are 37 major Nats or guardian spirits. Some represent the forest or mountains, but others are more specific, such as Min Kwawzwa who is a sort of “patron saint” for tramps and alcoholics.


This pagoda has been recently restored following earthquake damage. It is very beautiful, although its doors aren’t anything special.




In Britain, we have a tradition of the groom carrying the bride over the threshold through the door of the married couple’s home. So I think it is appropriate to add a wedding photograph.


Inside the pagoda there are some huge, tall doors and some huge tall golden statues of the Buddha.



My paternal grandfather was a very practical man who died many years ago. I know what he would have to say about this magnificent monument, this glistening white pagoda: “How the hell did they hang them bloody doors?”
11 replies on “Thursday Doors – Myanmar 2”
Wonderful. I have such great memories of walking through this complex.
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Quite awesome in the true sense of the word. And better to have Nat worship than Gnat worship. 🙂 Just couldn’t resist.
janet
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Absolutely stunning and yes how did they hang those doors? Assuming you have enough pixels in the digital file that reflection shot off the water is worthy of printing and framing.
Wonderful post Ian.
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Thanks Norm
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I’d be asking the same question. Right after I asked how they made them.
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fabulous collection doors. Cheers Stef
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I’m with your grandfather on that, what a task. Great photos.
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Oh, those are grand doors and doorways! I love the time-worn red wooden ones, especially the one with the door-within-a-door. I love your grandfather’s focus on the practicality.
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Incredible shots of the pagoda. I love the wedding photo!
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These are great, especially the photo of the cloister and of the next grand door.
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Indeed Myanmar is a treasure waiting to be discovered by the world. I am listing this country now in my bucket list!
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