Persian Style Mosques in Thonburi: The Relationship between Thailand and Iran in Architecture

Abstract

This study aims to explore the character of Persian architecture in mosques of Kaek Chao Sen or Thai Shi’ite muslims in Thonburi area. Five Persian style mosques are chosen as sample. Result of the study demonstrates that Persian style mosques in Thonburi area are derived from the need of Kaek Chao Sen to sustain their belief in Shi’ite sects and to represent that they have closed relationship with the Iranians. Therefore Kaek Chao Sen borrowed some elements of Persian architecture to built their mosques and decorate the mosques with symbols of Shi’ite. Persian architecture is cleverly applied with their cultural needs, emerge Persian style mosques in Thonburi area which its new aesthetics is worthy study and preserve.