Places To Visit In Bangkok: Anantasamakom Throne Hall
About Anantasamakom Throne Hall
This modern palace is built in an imperial fusion of Western Renaissance and ancient Thai styles. From the outside, its white marble appearance in the style of a grand European-style governmental building almost resembles the Whitehouse.
The Throne of the mighty Chakri Dynasty still stands here in the building that was constructed to house it. However, the role of this building has expanded with time into an impressive-looking building used for state ceremonies and meetings with foreign dignitaries. It was formerly the home of the Thai Houses of Parliament. Inside visitors will discover frescoes depicting the great works of the Chakri dynasty which line the inside of the building’s large marble dome.
Brief History Of Anantasamakom Throne Hall
The history of this building is one of conflicting joy and grief amongst the Thai people. Constructed to house Rama V’s throne, as well as to provide an impressive meeting place for foreign dignitaries, the Throne Hall has seen a turbulent history until recently.
In 1932, soldiers and civil servants led a fairly peaceful uprising against the Thai monarchy and took control of one of the royal palaces in Bangkok. The people demanded that the King, Rama VII, give the Thai people a constitution to lessen his power as absolute monarch. This very constitution was signed from the Throne, in the Anantasamakom Throne Hall. This moment remains seminal in Thailand’s history.
Tips for visitors to Anantasamakom Throne Hall
To get to Anantasamakom Throne Hall Garden, you will need to take either Bus 70 or 72. However, a tuk-tuk or amateur bicycle carriage will take you there just as easily. Admission to Anantasamakom Hall is free. However, visitors are encouraged to wear moderately formal attire such as long sleeved shirts and pants when visiting this important Thai landmark.