What is the concept of the Sanctuary of Truth?

The Sanctuary of Truth is a wooden building that is a hybrid of castle and temple based on the Ayutthaya
period as well as Hindu and Buddhist beliefs. This construction marvel is built with Mai Daeng and
teakwood, and it was designed by Mr. Lek Viriyahphan, the founder of the ancient city and Erawan
elephant museum.

Who is the architect of Sanctuary of Truth?

The Sanctuary of Truth is a wood sanctuary build by Mr. Lek Viriyaphan the founder of ancient city and
Erawan elephant museum. The Sanctuary of Truth is the largest wood building in Thailand that use only
wood to build it as the ancient Thai carpenter style.

Mr. Lek Viriyaphan is a Thai businessman and philanthropist who is known for his work in preserving Thai
cultural heritage. He is the founder and owner of the Sanctuary of Truth, a wooden temple located in
Pattaya, Thailand. The Sanctuary of Truth is an impressive structure made entirely of teak wood and
serves as a tribute to traditional Thai architecture and craftsmanship. Mr. Lek Viriyaphan's vision behind
the Sanctuary of Truth is to create a place of spiritual and cultural enlightenment, where visitors can
appreciate the rich history and artistry of Thailand. The sanctuary is also a center for traditional Thai
performing arts and a venue for religious ceremonies and rituals. Mr. Lek Viriyaphan's dedication to
preserving Thai culture through the Sanctuary of Truth has made it one of Thailand's most popular
tourist attractions.
CONSTRUCTION METHODS

Ancient Wooden Construction Techniques

In the process to build up the Sanctuary of Truth, experienced technicians are required to use unique
techniques to hold all wood pieces for structure build. The metal nails are used to attach all
woodcarvers. Since all wood carvers are valuable, the metal nails will hold them in place with a strong
bond. This is for further study of next generation.

Wooden beams serve to bear the weight of the floor. Attached to the poles on
both sides between pole and pole

Shading and tongue insertion Used to hold walls and floors, join
them together without grooves and hold the grooves of two pieces
of wood together. so that the workpiece can be connected to each
other wider, but the technician will apply it according to the
suitability of the workpiec
A hanging hawk or a falcon used to attach both sides of the
woodwork with both ends like a hawk’s tail. It is both an
extension and a hanger for hanging, so it is called a hanging
hawk or a falcon.
 Engraved and wedge Used instead of metal nails due to metal nails
do not having enough length to hold large woodwork. However, the wood
properties do stretch and shrink depending on the weather conditions.
Metal will be rusted, so it is not suitable for use and is not suitable for long-
term woodworking life and in the roof part.

Pan Kled, is woodwork that is used instead of tiles

for roofing. There will be a groove to be a channel that can
drain water during the rain

Eaves extend down to prevent water from

flowing into the building.

HISTORY
The idea for the Sanctuary of Truth first originated in the 1980s, when Lek Viriyaphant, a Thai billionaire
businessman and philanthropist, envisioned creating a place that would preserve traditional Thai
craftsmanship and showcase the beauty of Thai culture and philosophy.

Construction on the Sanctuary of Truth began in 1981 and continued for over three decades until
Viriyaphant's death in 2000. The sanctuary is located in Pattaya, a city on the eastern Gulf coast of
Thailand, and covers an area of about 20,000 square meters.

The sanctuary is entirely made of wood, with intricate carvings adorning its walls, pillars, and roof. It is
inspired by ancient Thai and Khmer architectural styles, particularly from the Ayutthaya and Sukhothai
periods.

The main purpose of the Sanctuary of Truth is to serve as a cultural center and a place of worship. It
combines elements of a temple, an art gallery, and a museum, showcasing traditional Thai art,
architecture, and craftsmanship.

The carvings on the Sanctuary of Truth depict various deities, mythical creatures, and scenes from Hindu
and Buddhist mythology. They also symbolize different aspects of Thai culture, such as the importance of
family, community, and spirituality.

Although the sanctuary remains unfinished, it is open to the public and attracts thousands of visitors
each year. It serves as a symbol of Thailand's rich cultural heritage and of Viriyaphant's vision to preserve
and promote Thai traditions.

Since Viriyaphant's death, his son continues to oversee the completion of the sanctuary according to his
father's original plans. The goal is for the sanctuary to be fully completed by 2025.

The Sanctuary of Truth stands as a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of Thai artisans. It is a
place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and spirituality of Thai culture, and gain a
deeper understanding of the country's rich history and traditions.