Unveiling the Wooden Castle Without Nails in Pattaya

Pattaya's resort area is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. However, behind the bustling bars and nightclubs, lies a magnificent castle known as the Sanctuary of Truth.

This sprawling architectural wonder spans 3,200 m2 and was commenced in 1981 by the late Thai tycoon Lek Viriyaphant. Yossathorn Nhongkoonoi, the castle's manager, clarifies that it's not a place for any specific religious worship.

Yossathorn Nhongkoonoi, the castle's manager, states: 'Mr. Lek's goal was to introduce tourists to the beauty of Thai culture and tradition. To recognize the valuable lessons from various faiths through the art of carving wooden deities and symbols of goodness from all religions. Thus, people can realize that all past religions have taught us good things.'

Surrounding the castle are thousands of wooden statues carved from various woods such as rosewood, teak imported from Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. Phongphol Penpark, a 45-year-old artisan caring for the castle, reveals that the late owner also envisioned it as a site to preserve Thailand's traditional building techniques, which have long been neglected. The construction technique doesn't require any fixed nails. Workers connect different wooden pieces using wooden pegs. Some wooden blocks weigh up to 2 tons.

Artisan Phongphol Penpark explains: 'The biggest challenge is lifting and securely joining large wooden blocks at height. Another challenge is that we continue working even when tourists are around, so they're required to wear safety helmets.

The castle welcomes 200-500 tourists annually, despite being under construction. The projected completion is in 2015.

Demidora Anastasia, a Russian tourist, shares: 'Construction is ongoing without any nails. Each part of the castle is connected like pieces of a puzzle, making it perhaps the most beautiful place in Pattaya. Thais believe that women can come here to pray, for example, to wish for a child if they desire.'

With tourists from various countries worldwide, this attraction offers guided tours in multiple languages such as Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Russian.

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Source: Mytour Travel Guide - Via: VTV