Santa Cruz Church stands in the Kudeejeen community on the Thonburi bank of the Chao Phraya River, a short walk through a riverside neighborhood shaped by Portuguese heritage. First built in the 18th century, it was rebuilt several times; the present church dates to the early 20th century. Look for its red dome and, inside, the carved wooden doors bearing Portuguese coats of arms, along with religious artwork and altars. Pair the visit with a walk around Kudeejeen, known for khanom farang cakes with Portuguese, Chinese and Thai influences.
A church shaped by the Portuguese community
Santa Cruz Church is in Kudeejeen, on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River. The church’s history is tied to the Portuguese community that settled in the area. It was first built in the 18th century, during King Taksin’s reign, and has been rebuilt several times. The present building was completed in the early 20th century.
The church is also known as the Church of the Holy Cross. One account links its name to the Catholic Feast of the Cross, which fell on the day land was donated for the church in 1769. The site remains a place of worship for Bangkok’s Catholic community as well as a landmark in the old Thonburi area.
Details to look for inside
The red dome is a distinctive feature of the church’s exterior. Inside, take time to notice the carved wooden doors decorated with coats of arms associated with Portuguese nobles, along with statues, religious artwork and altars. The building’s design combines European and Thai influences.
Kudeejeen is part of the visit. Its narrow lanes run through a neighborhood with a long Portuguese connection, and local food reflects more than one influence. Khanom farang kudi jeen is a cake associated with the area, combining Portuguese, Chinese and Thai flavors.
Planning a visit in Kudeejeen
The church is listed as open daily from 5 to 7 PM. Sunday Mass is listed for 7 PM, so visitors who wish to attend should arrive with respect for the service and congregation. The supplied information recommends advance ticket arrangements, but gives no ticket price or booking method.
Kudeejeen’s small lanes can be confusing to navigate, and parking is limited. Allow time to explore on foot. Nearby stops include Wat Kalayanamit and Kian An Keng Chinese Shrine; the riverside path also continues toward the Memorial Bridge.
FAQ
Where is Santa Cruz Church in Bangkok?
It is in the Kudeejeen community on the Thonburi side of the Chao Phraya River, at 112 Soi Kudeejeen, Wat Kanlaya.
When can you visit Santa Cruz Church?
The listed visiting hours are 5 to 7 PM daily. Sunday Mass is listed at 7 PM.
What should you look for inside Santa Cruz Church?
Look for the carved wooden doors with Portuguese coats of arms, along with the religious artwork, statues and altars.
What can you see near Santa Cruz Church?
Explore the Kudeejeen neighborhood and its local cake, khanom farang kudi jeen. Nearby places include Wat Kalayanamit and Kian An Keng Chinese Shrine.
