One of the oldest Catholic churches in Bangkok, Santa Cruz Church was built in 1770 to cater to the religious needs of foreigners living on the west bank of the Chao Phraya.
In 1767 (BE2310), a few months after the destruction of Ayutthaya—the former capital of Siam—King Taksin established the new capital city of Thonburi on the west bank of the Chao Phraya River. The monarch also allocated pieces of land to different communities, including one called Kudejeen to a small Portuguese community.
The name Kudeejeen is said to be derived from either kutijeen which means “Chinese monk’s residence” in Thai, or kuleejeen, which translates into “Chinese laborers.” The Portuguese settlement brought about a complex yet harmonious set-up where Christians, Buddhists and Muslims have been co-existing together peacefully for more than 200 years. The settlement also introduced a culture that was distinctive to the place, as well as unique Portuguese-influenced cuisine.
Getting to Kudeejeen is easy aboard the Chao Phraya Express boat. Hop on the boat from the pier nearest to you and get off at Wat Kanlaya. From there, it’s a three-minute walk to the community. The Italian Renaissance-style Santa Cruz Church marks the entrance to one of Bangkok’s longest-running hoods.
