Chanthaburi City Pillar Shrine—Chanthaburi City, Thailand. - Buddhist Temples and Public Shrines on Waymarking.com

A Lak Mueang or 'City Pillar Shrine' is a public shrine, usually in the shape of a pillar, which represents the tutelary diety of each province of Thailand. The pillar is housed in a structure, which often reflects the historical background of the province. Each Shrine has great religious, social, and political importance, and are held in high regard by the local inhabitants. Most Thai provinces have an official Shrine, and some districts within a province have their own, smaller shrine.

The Shrine for the small city, and the province of Chanthaburi is in the traditional Thai style, resembling a Thai Buddhist Wat, but with several Chinese elements. It is located in an open area, raised, approximately 6m on a side. The interior has a ~3m high golden pillar, with elaborate murals behind the Pillar. The interior is also lavish and beautiful. During my visit, on a weekday, in heavy rain, perhaps a dozen people were present to pay their respects.

There is a local belief that the Thai King, King Taksin (late 18th century) himself was the creator of this Lak Mueang, and used the Shrine as a rallying point for his troops and armies. Not impossible. The current Shrine was constructed in 1981, and has been refurbished several times.

The Shrine is easily found to the north of this small city, and near to other government buildings. Chanthaburi itself is in south eastern Thailand, bordering on Cambodia.

Open to visitors?: Yes Photography Permitted Inside?: Yes Statue of the Buddha present?: No Related Website: Not listed

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Photos of the shrine are strongly encouraged when permitted otherwise please refrain from taking pictures inside and in any case, generally have respect for the religious nature of the site.

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