Formerly the site of John Sampson & Son department store during the reign of King Rama VI, this three-level neoclassical architecture is now home to the most comprehensive exhibition on His Majesty King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) and the modern history of Thai politics. The building itself is newsworthy. Erected in 1912 by the royal household for British-born merchant John Sampson, it was the only commercial building on historic Ratchadamnoen Road throughout the department store’s 15-year run. It later provided space for a locally operated store named Suthadilok and later the Department of Public Works. Despite passing through various owners, the elaborate details of this palatial structure have been well-preserved. It was renovated and reopened as the King Prajadhipok Museum in 2002.
This is probably the only museum in Thailand with exhibitions dedicated to the foundation of Thai democracy. The 1932 Siamese Revolution, the coup d’etat that was instrumental in turning the absolute monarchy into a constitutional monarchy, took place during King Prajadhipok’s reign. This turbulent transition triggered a series of ups and downs in the lives of the monarch and his constituents— King Prajadhipok is, to date, the only king in the current Rattanakosin Era to have given up his throne due to disputes against the ruling government. A look into his life will also give you a glimpse into the birth of Thai democracy.
Bonus: To keep up with election season, the King Prajadhipok Museum has unveiled a new wing with an exhibit about Thailand’s journey to democracy and the many setbacks it has experienced along the way. A staircase, decorated with likenesses of prominent figures in Thai political history, from King Prajadhipok to dictator Plaek Pibunsonggram, leads to a mixed-media exhibition that divulges the many elements that make up Thai politics. There’s also a make-believe gameshow studio where you can test your knowledge on the complicated Thai electoral system.