“ Located to the south of Pimarn Pathom Throne Hall, this two-story building was formerly used as part of the Nakhon Pathom public prosecutor’s office. ”
Abhirom Ruedee Throne Hall was constructed during the reign of King Vajiravudh within Sanam Chandra Palace. The palace was commissioned as a royal residence outside the capital, used for retreats and administrative work, particularly during periods when the king conducted Wild Tiger Corps training and military activities.
Concept and Spatial Planning
The throne hall was designed as part of the Inner Court of the palace, intended to accommodate members of the royal inner circle, including queens, consorts, and ladies-in-waiting. This area required a high degree of privacy, distinguishing it from other throne halls used for receptions or royal ceremonies.
The building is strategically positioned to connect with other important structures, such as Pimarn Pathom Throne Hall, via internal corridors. This allowed movement within the palace without entering public areas, reflecting the traditional Thai royal layout that clearly separates the outer and inner court zones.
Architectural Characteristics (Architectural Analysis)
The structure is a two-story brick building influenced by Western architectural styles of the late 19th to early 20th century, harmoniously blended with Thai decorative elements.
Key features include:
- Gingerbread Style Ornamentation
Intricate carved wooden decorations adorn the gables, eaves, and verandas. These motifs, often floral and organic, reflect Thai artistic elegance while being integrated into a Western structural framework. - Symmetrical Plan
The building follows a balanced left-right symmetry, characteristic of European—especially colonial—architecture. - Surrounding Verandas
Wide verandas are designed to enhance ventilation, making the building suitable for Thailand’s tropical climate. This demonstrates the adaptation of Western design to local environmental conditions. - Yellow and White Color Scheme
A signature palette of several buildings within the palace, conveying warmth, elegance, and European-influenced aesthetics of the period.
Historical Function and Context
During the reign of King Rama VI, Abhirom Ruedee Throne Hall primarily served as a residential space rather than a ceremonial one.
- It was used as living quarters for royal consorts during visits to Nakhon Pathom
- Functioned as a space for daily life, including sleeping chambers, private reception rooms, and service areas
- It was also associated, for a period, with the enshrinement of the royal ashes of King Rama VI before their permanent relocation elsewhere
This highlights that Sanam Chandra Palace was not merely a retreat, but a fully functioning royal complex capable of supporting court life.
Present-Day Exhibition
Today, the throne hall is preserved and open to visitors, focusing on recreating its original atmosphere rather than presenting modern-style exhibitions.
Interior spaces include:
- Bedchamber – furnished with a royal bed and personal items
- Reception/Working Room – featuring Western-style furniture such as tables and chairs
- Supporting Spaces – including dressing areas and attendants’ quarters
Most furnishings are either original to the period or carefully reproduced, allowing visitors to closely experience the lifestyle of the royal court during that era.
Historical and Artistic Significance
Abhirom Ruedee Throne Hall holds value in several aspects:
- Historical Value: Reflects the lifestyle of the royal court during the reign of King Rama VI, especially the inner court
- Architectural Value: A clear example of Thai–Western hybrid architecture
- Cultural Value: Demonstrates the adaptation of the Thai monarchy to modernity during the early 20th century
How to Get There
- By Car: From Bangkok, take Phetkasem Road or Borommaratchachonnani Road toward Nakhon Pathom. Sanam Chandra Palace is located 1 km from Phra Pathom Chedi.
- By Train: Get off at Nakhon Pathom Railway Station, then take a local taxi or continue on foot for a short distance.
Travel Tips
- Dress modestly (no shorts, sleeveless tops, or above-the-knee skirts), as this is a royal compound
- Shoes must be removed before entering the building; follow photography rules strictly
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better lighting for photos
- Allow time to explore the entire Sanam Chandra Palace grounds, which include multiple throne halls and pleasant gardens
- Bring drinking water, a hat, or an umbrella, as some areas are exposed to strong sunlight
Admission Fee:
- Thai visitors: Adults 30 THB / Children 10 THB
- Foreign visitors: 50 THB
- (Includes access to the Sanam Chandra Palace complex)
Opening Hours:
- Open daily: 09:00 – 16:00 hrs. (last ticket at 15:30 hrs.)
- Note: May be closed on certain public holidays or official occasions