Mandalay Palace Myanmar architecture

great audience hall, mandalay palace, 1903

mandalay palace primary example of wooden architecture in myanmar, places emphasis on exterior aesthetics rather interior space. though not constructed until late-1850s, characteristics of palace, such cardinally placed gates , central palace structure, can traced early-pyu period. east-west primary axis constructed palace buildings themselves. illustrations 11th century pagan depict wooden buildings similar @ palace handiwork later found @ mandalay.

after fire in 1945, section of original palace remained. remnant contained examples of traditional stucco used in burmese construction. in palace, flower distribution centre contains several wooden, semicircular arches may have been inspired 19th century european buildings. stucco on these arches appears represent rays of sunlight or lotus petals.

along primary features of wood carvings , stucco, tiered roofs (pyatthat) common feature of palace. inside, covered hallways lead small throne room topped pyatthat. many pyatthats on palace, other burmese structures, parallel monasteries , throne rooms. there pyatthat directly on great audience hall.

as constructed of wood , stucco in tropical climate, frequent renovations of palace have been necessary. though once constructed of teak, concrete has since been incorporated structure reinforcement.