Siam Society has organised a one-day trip -- "The Old Bangkok II: Beauty, Delicacy And Legacies Of The Past" -- with an itinerary including visits to four heritage buildings in the capital, on May 13.
Following last year's study trip to four Thai-hybrid and European-style heritage buildings in Bangkok from the King Rama V and King Rama VI periods, this latest trip will be led by Navamintr Vitayakul who will guide participants on an exploration of more spectacular architecture.
The day begins at the auditorium hall of Vajiravudh College, originally called Mahadlek College. Originally a schoolhouse of wooden buildings and thatched roofs that opened in 1911, the auditorium hall and four Thai-style buildings were later added in designs corresponding to Wat Benchamabophit opposite the nearby Dusit Zoo.
Then it's on to Phaya Thai Palace, once a favourite relaxation spot for King Rama V. The site was later transformed into a 5-star hotel while also being the location of the Royal Thai Army's medical headquarters (later to become Phramongkutklao Hospital). The site now serves as a museum with many interesting buildings. The next stop for day-trippers will be Sai Suddha Nobhadol Building Museum and three heritage buildings in the compound of Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, which was once a royal court within Dusit Palace and a place for leisure enjoyed by King Rama V and the royal family.
The trip will conclude with a visit to the ancient house of Phraya Burut Rattana Ratchaphanlop House, otherwise known as the house of Nop Krairiksh, who was a chamberlain during the reign of King Rama V. He designed all the plans and decorated the house in Victorian-Gothic style, focusing on natural patterns of flowers and leaves.
The fee is 4,900 baht (4,500 baht for members). Reservations should be made by May 2.
Email studytrips@thesiamsociety.org or call 02-661-6470--3 ext 205.
