Go crazy in Pattaya for once
With that slogan I don't mean: going full out on Walking Street. So many already do. This has been reported so often. Do something surprising and go to a Temple. You may say, "Well, there are so many temples and I've seen enough of them."
Not this one, this one is really different.
To begin with, it is not a real temple at all, but a school to teach people the craft of sculpture. The 'Sanctuary of Truth' is located in and around a huge building on the outskirts of Pattaya. From the outside, when you walk up to it, it looks like anything but a school. You initially walk through a forecourt dotted with parts of statues. You imagine yourself in a demolition where fantastic objects are sold. Via a path you then walk to a huge teak building, resembling a ship, perhaps a Balinese mansion or wherever your imagination takes you.
Built in traditional style, it shoots more than a hundred meters into the air. Hundred meters of sculpture. The building that is close to the coast must be exposed to the sun, the wind and the stir defy. The Thai those who learn to sculpt here the time-honored way have their hands full decorating almost every free smooth inch.
As a Dutchman I always thought that teak was for eternity. Here you see that the elements are competing with the army of men and women, who are sitting cross-legged on the floor, beautifying or repairing the building. Very concentrated they chop away and with only a limited amount of tools they make the most beautiful images.
The building is therefore not just standing: it lives and grows through the sweat and talent of a group of students who are taught skills. Who not only teaches them a trade but also a passion to make something beautiful.
It is actually a temple, a temple for sculpture.
Sanctuary of truth
Naklua soi 12, Pattaya
Text and photography: Francois Eyck
About this blogger
-
Known as Khun Peter (62), lives alternately in Apeldoorn and Pattaya. In a relationship with Kanchana for 14 years. Not yet retired, have my own company, something with insurance. Crazy about animals, especially dogs and music.
Enough hobbies, but unfortunately little time: writing for Thailandblog, fitness, health and nutrition, shooting sports, chatting with friends and some other oddities.
Read the latest articles here
EconomyJanuary 11 2025Thailand strengthens economy with ambitious trade policy
Money and financeJanuary 11 2025SCB Financial Markets publishes outlook for financial markets in 2025
Flight ticketsJanuary 11 2025Major disruptions expected at Brussels Airport due to national protest action on Monday
Food and drinkJanuary 11 2025Kaeng panang (curry) also a surprise from Thai cuisine
Fantastic, Francoise!
Thank you very much, I live in Pattaya but have never been there! Shame!
Martin Brands
Indeed an impressive "temple" that has been under construction for over 30 years, located in an otherwise top location of Pattaya (or actually Naklua).
A piece of beautiful sculpture, although the visit is a bit expensive considering the entrance fee of 500 Thai baht.
Look up http://changnoi1.blogspot.com/2010/09/sancturary-of-truth.html
In fact, we my wife and I have a permanent rental flat in soi 12.
See the buses passing by from our balcony every day when we are there.
5555 but never been to that temple, but will walk there next April
Indeed a separate temple with a beautifully carved dark brown wooden
interior, which gives it its own special atmosphere.
In addition to vocational training, it was also an idea of the municipal council to
place Pattaya by giving projects a more positive image and upgrading.
If you go through the gate, you can be driven around a bit with a horse and carriage.
In the temple there is a tree with a yellow/green sash where you can make a wish
leave behind. (Hope for a good farang!)
In addition, a dolphin show is given on a small scale and a dance/music
group up and you can enjoy a simple restaurant!
Sincerely,
Lodewijk
Impressive. A reason to make a stopover in Pattaya if I / we are in the area in the coming years.