Thawornwatthu Building

With its striking red façade and traditional Thai architectural style, the Thawornwatthu Building immediately catches the eye. Built in the late 19th century, it was originally intended to serve as the royal crematorium for Crown Prince Vajirunhis, the eldest son of King Rama V. But in 1895, tragedy struck the dynasty: the young prince died suddenly of typhoid fever at just sixteen years old. After his funeral, the building lost its original purpose and was repurposed for a time as the National Library, reflecting the cultural awakening of that era. Today, it has found a dual vocation: it houses a museum dedicated to Rama V — one of Thailand’s most revered monarchs — and a specialized bookshop focusing on the kingdom’s history and culture. Reigning for forty-two years, Rama V was a visionary ruler: he abolished slavery, modernized the administration, expanded education, and brought the country into the modern age, all while preserving its independence from colonial powers. Through its halls, its collections, and even its bookshelves, the Thawornwatthu Building tells not only a family story, but also a cultural story — and a defining chapter in the nation’s history.