Holy Rosary Church

Have you ever wondered about a church in Bangkok, Thailand, that was named after a hill in Jerusalem? This very church, the Holy Rosary, is one of the oldest churches in the city and whispers of a long-gone Portuguese legacy. The Holy Rosary Church, known locally as “Wat Kalawar”, meaning “Calvary”, is a fascinating example of how religions and cultures intertwine across continents. The church’s beginnings date all the way back to 1787 when it was built by the Portuguese settlers. The original church was a simple wooden structure, but it was replaced by a bigger, more durable building made of wood on a masonry base in 1839. However, time took its toll, and the church began to fall into disrepair by 1890. The church’s pastor, Father Desalles, felt the need for a complete renovation. The construction of a new church, which stands today in its Gothic Revival style, took place between 1891 and 1897. The interior features gorgeous stained-glass windows, gilded ceilings, and a statue of Christ that is carried through the streets during Easter. This building has been a place of worship for generations, and its rich history can be seen in the details of the building itself. The Portuguese community, who initially founded this church, eventually dispersed over time, and it’s now predominantly frequented by Vietnamese, Cambodian, and Chinese Catholics. Just as the city itself blends different cultures, so too does the Holy Rosary Church. Stand here, in front of the main entrance framed by tall arches, and feel the energy of the city and the church’s history flow around you.