A Visit to Four Heritage Buildings

Prince Chulalongkorn, the son of King Rama IV, became the fifth king of the Chakri Dynasty when he was only 15 years old. During his reign, he initiated many important social reforms. The King abolished serfdom and the conscription of commoners for slave labour but implemented these reforms gradually so that the society could adjust without having a civil war, as it had happened in other places. As a result of the abolishment of these two systems, an influx of independent labour entered the market, and consequently, the economy of Siam expanded enormously at this time. In addition, King Rama V also reformed the government by applying the nation-state policy. The central government would have the power to govern and administer its policies, and creating unity within the nation as a result. At the same time, in 1892, he established 14 western-style ministries. Rattanakosin had been established for 100 years and celebrated its centenary in 1882. The city was quite developed and much changed. During His Majesty’s reign, he travelled twice to Europe in 1897 and 1907. Many houses and ministry buildings were built in European architectural styles. Architects, engineers, sculptors and painters came from across Europe and contributed to Bangkok’s developing landscape. Modern infrastructure systems of telegraph, telephone, train and tram were constructed. Siam had to develop in all modern ways so that no western powers could claim the lack of civilisation as an excuse to colonise the country.

The Siam Society will arrange a one-day trip to visit some of these magnificent architectures in Bangkok, under the leadership of Dr Navamintr Vitayakul, Former Council Member and Chairperson of Lecture Committee of The Siam Society.