Ban Tha Rae Community (Tha Rae Roman Catholic Community)

History & Significance

Ban Tha Rae was established in 1884 (2427 B.E.) by Roman Catholic Christians, including Vietnamese (Yuan) and Thai Nyaw ethnic groups, who migrated from the main town of Sakon Nakhon across Nong Han Lake. Facing religious restrictions from local rulers during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), they sought a new home. Guided by Father Guego and a Vietnamese teacher named Tan, they built a large bamboo raft to transport about 150 people (20 families) and their belongings across the lake. Praying to Archangel Michael for guidance, the wind blew their blanket-sail to a shore rich in laterite soil, locally called 'Hin Hae'. They settled there, naming the community 'Tha Hae', which eventually became 'Tha Rae'.

Later, under the leadership of Father Joseph Combourieu, the community was developed with a European-style chessboard grid layout, which is highly unique for Thai villages. Over time, Phu Thai and other groups joined, creating a rich cultural blend of Phu Thai, Thai Lao, Thai Nyaw, and Vietnamese heritages.

Highlights & What to See

The community is renowned for its architectural and cultural landmarks:

• French-Vietnamese Colonial Architecture: Along the main road, you can admire historic two-story brick mansions built by skilled Vietnamese craftsmen. These structures feature thick brick walls for support instead of traditional columns, with some hardware imported directly from France. Key highlights include the Udomdechwat Mansion, Sorin Mansion, and the Francisco Old Vietnamese Noodle House.
• St. Michael the Archangel Cathedral: A massive Roman Catholic church designed in the shape of a ship to commemorate the historic raft migration of the founding families across Nong Han Lake. It serves as the spiritual center of the Archdiocese of Thare and Nonseng.
• Christmas Star Parade Festival: Held annually from December 23 to 25, this spectacular festival celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. The community is illuminated by thousands of colorful star lanterns, accompanied by grand parades and festive activities.

Visitor Information

The community is open daily and there is no admission fee to walk around and appreciate the architecture. For inquiries, visitors can contact the Tha Rae Sub-district Municipality at 0 4275 1440 or 0 4275 1213. Visitors are advised to dress politely when entering the cathedral and respect the local residential neighborhood.

How to Get There

Ban Tha Rae is located in Tambon Tha Rae, Mueang Sakon Nakhon District, Sakon Nakhon Province, along Nityo Road. It sits on the northern shore of Nong Han Lake, approximately 3 kilometers from the water's edge during the dry season.