At first glance, the rows of cannons on display in front of the former Ministry of Defence Building could be mistaken for decorative toys, but a trip to the Defence Hall Museum quickly makes it clear that they are the real thing. In fact, the cannons and the old building tell intriguing stories and shed light on some fascinating facets of Thai history.

 

The museum takes visitors back to the early Rattanakosin period and relates the history of both the Thai military and the historical building.

 

The Neo-Classic building, now known as the Defence Hall Museum, celebrated its 139th anniversary on July 18. Constructed during the reign of King Rama V (King Chulalongkorn) at a time when Siam was embracing European civilization, the building was designed by the esteemed Italian architect Gioachino Grassi. Its Palladian-style architecture has endured over the years, making it one of the most exquisite structures in Bangkok and earning its registration among the Fine Arts Department’s ancient sites in 1998.

 

TOP: Neo-classical style architecture. (Photo by Veena Thoopkrajae)

 

Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/war-and-peace-a-trip-back-through-time-at-the-former-defence-ministry/

 

-- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-08-04

 

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Would make a great hotel.

I can't see any cannons.

4 hours ago, CelticBhoy said:

Would make a great hotel.

Chuwit hotel.. he'd make a profit

21 hours ago, Neeranam said:

I can't see any cannons.

Need to click link.

On 8/4/2023 at 8:30 AM, webfact said:

At first glance, the rows of cannons on display in front of the former Ministry of Defence Building could be mistaken for decorative toys

No, they couldn't.