Mingalar Zedi

Mingalar Zedi

It is one of the latest temples built in Bagan Dynastry. Mingalar Zedi or Blessing Pagoda is located close to the Irrawaddy River and is one of the attractive and interesting place in Bagan.

You can learn about its latest architecture and art before fall of Bagan.

Mingalar Pagoda was built by King Narathihapathe in AD 1277 and finished in AD1283.

In Burmese history, Narathihapathe is famous as the king of the ‘ Runner from Chinese invasion’ and one who ate every meals with 300 dishes.

It is as similar as the size and form of early-built Shwe Zegone Zedi, famous one in Nyaung Oo.

While the Pagoda was still under construction, the Mongol war began on Bagan.

Unlike other pagodas which were built during peaceful time in Bagan, it was built in the disastrous period of Bagan.

So we can think it was named Mingalar or Blessing for expecting to clear of all misfortunes fell upon the country.

We can learn with longing mind the last handiwork of the great Bagan people which he left as an inheritance for future generations.

The pagoda is made up of three terraces.You can see the plaques of scenes from the Jataka Tales, line the sides of the terrace.

There were many monasteries inside the compound of this pagoda.

Right now, you can still see a old brick library which is in good condition today.

  

The Stone inscription of the Shinditar Pamauk, the leader of peace missionary sent by Bagan king to Kublai Khan was found in a cave on the west side of the pagoda and are now in the Bagan Museum.

 Mingalar Pagoda is  in the western part of Bagan and located close to the Ayeyarwady River.

It is one of the rare temples in the region, which is allowed to step to the uppermost terrace.

It is a great place to take Bagan sunset panoramic pictures on the evening.

(By Kyawmin Aung)