Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Chantaboon Waterfront Community
(Th Sukhaphiban)
Along the banks of Mae Nam Chanthaburi is a 1km stretch of old wooden
houses that are valiantly being preserved. It makes for an atmospheric stroll with a typic-
al Thai twist: food features more prominently than facts. Stop by the
Learning House
paintings and architectural drawings that reveal the community's history.
Of especial interest are the drawings of the homes' beautifully carved ventilation pan-
els. Much of the community's immigrant past is revealed in these unique panels: there are
carvings of Chinese characters and even French fleurs-de-lis.
Farmers and merchants first settled on the fertile river banks some 300 years ago, es-
tablishing the area as an agricultural trading post. Chinese traders and economic migrants
sought refuge here, thus diversifying the local population. Vietnamese Catholics fled
from religious persecution in their home country. And before long the different groups
had intermarried until everyone claimed a little bit of each culture.
Today, the older generation remains in the rickety old houses but increasing numbers
of domestic tourists are coming for weekend outings to eat Chinese, Thai and Vietnamese
specialities and listen to all the old stories.
HISTORICAL SITE
Cathedral
(east bank of Mae Nam Chanthaburi; daylight hours)
This French-style cathedral, across a foot-
bridge from Th Sukhaphiban, is the town's architectural highlight. A small missionary
chapel was built here in 1711, when Vietnamese Catholics and a French priest arrived.
The original has undergone four reconstructions between 1712 and 1906 and is now the
largest building of its kind in Thailand.
CHURCH
King Taksin Park
(Th Tha Chalaep; daylight hours)
The town's main oasis is filled with picnicking families and
joggers. It's a pleasant spot for an evening stroll.
PARK
