Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall

Situated near the Equestrian Statue of King Rama V, Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall is a landmark monument of Bangkok. Predominantly Italian in style, the building owes its architecture to Italian architects, Mario Tamagno and Annibale Rigotti, who have left imprints of their legerdemain all over Thailand. The construction work of the edifice started in 1907, under the regime of King Chulalongkorn or King Rama V. However, it saw completion after 8 years, i.e. in 1915, during the reign of King Vajiravudh or King Rama VI.

This staggering monument stands surrounded by lush landscaped gardens and covers a sprawling area of around 5,600 sq meters. Designed by Italian architects and engineers, and decorated by Italian artists, the building gives the impression of ancient European monuments. There is a huge throne hall coroneted with a dazzling white dome that soars to the skies and remains visible from a large distance. Six other smaller domes flank this large central dome on all sides.

On the main entrance to the throne hall, there is a joist over the archway emblazoned with delicate sculptures. Moreover, an embellished golden gate leads to the foyer, surrounded with marble walls and floored with expensive carpets. On either sides of this hall, there are stairs that snake their way to the main throne hall above. Inside the room, the Royal Throne and two plush umbrellas majestically sit under the 40 m high central dome.

Beautiful paintings and murals of various Chakri kings deck the walls of the domes. Behind the throne, there is a huge inner hall that displays many sculptures and murals. These, artworks done by Italian artists Professor Galileo Chini and C. Riguli, present a striking amalgam of different Thai and European scenes. With its alluring beauty and rich history, Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall attracts many visitors and remains one of the most stunning tourist attractions of the city.