Old Spirit House

Many people do not pay attention to the spirit houses. They are everywhere, in front of private houses, condominiums or public buildings. The Thais - like the Chinese - strongly believe in ghosts & spirits. As a matter of fact, you may wonder why the roofs are always curved? It is to redirect the descending evil spirits from the sky. Spirit Houses are meant to protect family homes or public places. And in order to gain their protection, fresh offerings of food and flowers are made everyday. Spirit Houses can be traditionally plain, or very modern. but some like this one are very old.

This wood spirit house stands by the old traditional teak houses at the Kamthieng House Museum in downtown Bangkok. It is lovely and intricate. Notice the small figures that decorate the spirit house. By the way, the main house in this outdoor museum is said to be haunted by a ghost.