The Democracy Monument stands in the middle of a busy roundabout on Ratchadamnoen Klang Road in Bangkok. It commemorates the 1932 revolution, which ended absolute monarchy and established a constitutional monarchy. Four wing-shaped structures rise around a central pedestal, where a representation of the constitution sits above offering bowls. You cannot enter the monument, but you can view its design from around the roundabout. Go after dark to see it illuminated, or include a brief stop while exploring the area near Khao San Road.
A monument to the 1932 revolution
The Democracy Monument commemorates the 1932 Siamese Revolution, which brought an end to absolute monarchy and established a constitutional monarchy. It stands in the centre of a roundabout on Ratchadamnoen Klang Road, a major Bangkok avenue.
The monument was commissioned in 1939. Its construction was closely overseen by Italian-born artist Corrado Feroci, later known as Silpa Bhirasri. A design by Poom Malakul is also associated with the monument. It was erected in the late 1930s and is commonly dated to 1940.
The constitution at the centre
The monument’s central feature is a representation of a palm-leaf manuscript box containing the 1932 constitution. It rests above two offering bowls on a round pedestal. Four wing-shaped structures surround it, representing the army, navy, air force and police, whose members took part in the 1932 coup.
Relief panels around the base depict scenes connected with the revolution, the drafting of the constitution and the aspirations of the people. The design gives the monument’s political history a physical form: the constitution occupies the centre, with the four wings rising around it.
Viewing the monument
The Democracy Monument is set within an active traffic circle, and its entrance is sealed. You can walk around the outside, but getting a closer view means waiting for traffic to stop at the lights. Take care when approaching and crossing the surrounding roads.
The monument’s appearance changes with the light. After dark, its illumination gives the wings and central structure more definition, and traffic is lighter than during the day. A nearby McDonald’s has been noted as an indoor spot from which to view it. The monument is also used as a landmark when travelling to the Khao San Road area.
FAQ
Can you go inside the Democracy Monument?
No. The entrance is sealed, so the monument can only be viewed from outside.
What does the Democracy Monument commemorate?
It commemorates the 1932 Siamese Revolution and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.
When is the best time to see the Democracy Monument?
Visit at night to see it illuminated, when traffic around it is also lighter.
How do you get a closer look at the monument?
It sits in a busy traffic circle. You can walk around the outside, but wait for the traffic lights before approaching or crossing the roads.
