Renowned for its exciting nightlife and fabulous shopping opportunities, Bangkok is one of the most popular stops in Asia. While the city may not require introduction, there is much about it that will surprise tourists. The sprawling metropolis is a place where age old traditions live side by side with the products of modern science. This unique blend forms a large part of the city’s charm.
The Spirit Houses are an example of Bangkok’s rich heritage and deep spirituality. They are found outside almost every house and building, and are actually shrines built to appease spirits. The doll sized shrines are built in auspicious locations and contain figurines or statues of various deities. The Spirit Houses are built for easy access, so that many people can pray there and give small offerings. The offerings usually consist of food, candles, incense and flowers.
There are four types of Spirit Houses- San Jao Tii, San Pra Phroom, San Phra Brahm and San Piyanda. Usually the San Jao Tii and the San Pra Phroom are built in pairs. The ‘San Jao Tii’ is for the spirits that inhabit the land, and are the earliest types of Spirit Houses built. This type of house contains miniature figurines of the owners, as well as various dolls for the entertainment of the spirit. The San Pra Phroom is for the land’s Guardian Angel. Both houses are usually made of wood, and architecturally resemble Buddhist temples. San Phra Brahm’s are large structures typically associated with large buildings. The San Piyanda is a temporary structure, used until a permanent one can be put in place.
Spirit Houses are mainly built to appease spirits, while Shrines are built to revere deities, and these structures can be found in abundance all over Bangkok’s urban landscape. They stand as a testimony to the underlying beliefs of the locals.Tourists can appreciate the elegant structures that stand in colourful contrast to the grey tones of the city.
Travellers looking for a Bangkok Hotel surrounded by elegance and beauty will find it at the Anantara Bangkok Sathorn. The 5 Star Bangkok Hotel is located at the heart of the city’s business and shopping districts, making it easier for guests to explore exciting Bangkok.
