When I was young, the democracy monument looked like some building with wings to me. It always triggered a question ‘what does democracy have to do with these wings’.
Such a young and innocent kid.
These ‘wings’ are not just the decorative features that evoke the powerful feelings, but it also tells the story of the Siamese Revolution event at the base of each wing.
If you appear to pass by this monument, here is a bit of a history of this place. So you will understand more of what you see in the area.
Brief History of The Democracy Monument
It was officially opened on 24th June 1940 to visibly commemorate the Siamese Revolution event to the public, an event which turned Thailand to a democratic state.
The Siamese Revolution occurred on 24th June 1932, 8 years before the monument was constructed. The movement was led by a group of people called Khana Ratsadon who proposed the first ‘democratic constitution’ with a promising ideology to develop the country to prosperity.
The monument was designed by Silpa Bhirasri, a famous Italian artist among Thai and establishments of Silpakorn University, top university of arts in Thailand.
If you notice at the top of the middle building, there is something like an ‘ancient scripture’ on the top of the Thai golden high tray. This ‘ancient scripture’ represents the first democratic constitution of Thailand.
Now the wings, as mentioned earlier, have a bas-relief sculpture at the base of each wing which tells the story of the event.
Small details such as the height of the wings, each of them are 24 meters high, representing the date of Siamese Revolution the 24th June.
Image source: Parliament Museum Thailand
Recognition of The Monument
Many protests, especially protests against the military government are usually held here at the Democracy monument as a symbol of Democracy in Thailand.
Journeybliss tips: The Democracy Monument is magnificent, however if there is a protest it might create a safety concern when you travel to Bangkok. To avoid any collateral damage, always get yourself updated about the protesting situation in Bangkok before the arrival and avoid passing by the location and the nearby area as possible. Staying in a hotel away from the area is a great option.
Opening Hours
You are allowed to pass by and appreciate the beauty of this monument 24/7. The monument has a hall inside, however, it is not open to the public.
Entrance Fee
No entrance fee. You can only stand and appreciate from afar.
How to Get There?
If you plan to visit Wat Ratchanaddaram, there are many interesting places nearby.
I recommend reading our Sao Chingcha article to find more information about the other interesting places nearby and the best way to travel here.
