Tag: Ban Ari Dharma Library

In this blog, we will explore Bangkok attractions that are less known to tourists such as Ban Krua Nuea Community, Jamiul Khairiah Mosque, Ari Alley, Ministry of Finance's Flea Market and Ban Ari Dharma Library. These attractions are not mainstream. Thus, it will be less touristy and full of local culture and experience.  Ban Krua Nuea Community According to historical accounts, Ban Krua Nuea of the Cham Community, migrated to Siam in the reign of Rama I. Originally, they were renowned in fishery and silk-weaving. The latter developed to be-the community's specialty. Photo credit: บ้านครัวผ้าไหมไทย Photo credit: ชมชนบ้านครัวเหนือ Initially, silk products produced here were for everyday use like sarongs. However, the outstanding craftsmanship was spotted by Jim Thompson who helped to modernize products and marketed them aboard. High quality silk products from Ban Krua Nuea were popular among foreigners and were selected to be featured in the film 'Ben Hur' but after Thompson's disappearance, silk-weaving in the community began to decline. Nowadays, there are only two families who remain as silk-weavers with some degree of governmental support. Jamiul Khairiah Mosque Also known as 'Surao Asa Cham' (Cham Volunteer Corps' Mosque), this mosque was built in the early Bangkok period. According to historical accounts it was built by Phraya Ratchabangsaenmaen, a Cham officer. Photo credit: masjidmap.co.th Photo credit: matichon.co.th In Rama VII's reign, the old hipped roof building of the mosque was torn down to make way for the new concert building. The exterior wall is made of stone and was the old building's facade. It's roof is a sky deck with a dome at its centre. The front part's floor is laid with craft ceramic tiles which are well preserved. The mosque was completed in 1957. Its interior is large and decorated gracefully. The mosque has been a part of the Ban Krua Community