Woodworker's Journal 2008-32-4, страница 13

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Thai Wooden Temple

Exquisite Carving

With a sea view over the Gulf of Thailand, the Sanctuary of Truth Temple is the flamboyant creation of Mr. Lek Viriyaphun. Twenty years in the making and employing up to 100 people at any one time, this extravagant dedication to a personal vision is designed to represent all aspects of Eastern mythology and spirituality through wooden sculpture and traditional wooden building techniques. The founder was motivated to create a structure and environment to educate people and serve as a reminder of our spiritual roots, which he felt were often neglected in the materialistic world we live in.

Sanctuary of Truth Temple

By Ian Buswell

In a setting framed by nature and accented by the Gulf of Thailand, the Sanctuary of Truth Temple (all-wood, with no nails, screws or metal supports) is being built near Pattaya, Thailand.

Ihofas by lan Buswell

Each section of the interior and exterior is dedicated to different myths of Eastern religion and spirituality. Every surface is covered in elaborate sculptures and carvings.

Its tallest spire is 105 meters tall, and the building is 100 meters wide. When it is completed, it will be entirely made of wood with no nails, screws or other metal supports. The architectural design and construction methods have been inspired by traditional Thai joinery techniques

Traditional tools of the trade; chisels, a hammer and a brush made of reeds are spread out as they are being used.

The highly decorated entrance and stairway leading to the southeast wing of the Sanctuary of Truth Temple. The carvings and the

staircase are all made of various hardwoods.

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