Viman Mek Mansion & Abhisek Dusit Throne Hall
Viman Mek Mansion, an architectural gem that displays Western influence of the Victorian period, is the largest golden teak building in the world. It was constructed by H.M. King Chulalongkorn, or King Rama V in 1900 as his residence.
After the King's death in 1910, Viman Mek Mansion was left unoccupied. It attained a new role when Her Majesty Queen Sirikit discovered that the building was structurally sound and was still a beautifl and intricate piece of architecture. She, therefor, asked His Majesty the King for permission to restore the building and make it a memorial in honor of H.M. King Chulalongkorn.
| With its European style, Viman Mek Mansion is built according to Thai tradition, using golden teak wood and not a single nail. Teak wood contains a special oil which makes it resistant to heat and heavy rains, and which also acts as an insect repellent. Amongst the possessions of Rama V on display is Thailand’s first indoor bathroom and the oldest typewriter with Thai characters, as well as Thai ceramics, European furniture, precious China and lovely portraits. |
The Aphisek Dusit Throne Hall
Aphisek Dusit, built in a harmonious Euro-Thai style, has a display of handicrafts, including Thai famous Mat Mi silk; Malaeng Thap collages made from metallic, multi-coloured beatle wings, damascene ware, nielloware and Yan Liphao basketry made by Queen Sikirit’s Promotion of Supplementary Occupations & Related Techniques (SUPPORT) Foundation.
The Royal Carriage Buildings These buildings contain carriages, mostly imported from Europe, which were very popular at the time of King Rama V.
HRH Princess Bussaban Bua-Phan Residential Hall
The building features displays of photographs taken by His Majesty the King. The photographs do not only reveal His Majesty's mastery of the art, but also attest to his dedication to the well being of his subjects in every part of the kingdom.
Suan Farang Kangsai Residential Hall
The small Suan Farang Kangsai Mansion has oil paintings and pictures of King Rama V and his family.
The compound is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Each day there are two shows of traditional Thai dancing at 10.30 am and 2.00 pm. Proper attire is required.
