แนะนำหนังสือ:ติดเกาะกับตึกเก่า[NA2543 .T68 l181 2564]

Abstract

The Old Town part of Bangkok is a small area measuring only about 1,000 acres, protected by the City Wall and embraced by a moat. It has been the center of the Kingdom since Bangkok was established as the capital city.

It has been two centuries, and the Old Town, like everything else, cannot escape from change. Formerly a port town in the Ayutthaya era, it became the Kingdom’s capital, and later a part of a busy metropolitan. Let’s take a look at what the Old Town has been through by looking at the buildings in it.

The architectural style of each era not only demonstrates technology evolution but also speaks volumes about the society and way of life at the time, both of which have continued to evolve over the past two centuries.

Architecture in the traditional Thai era: In the beginning, old traditions were maintained, and palaces and temples were the most significant.

Architecture in the Colonization era: In the second century, Siam interacted with Western countries, and we adapted and evolved into a more civilized version of Siam. The elite were into all things Western. New businesses emerged, and we saw schools, theaters, hospitals, military barracks, government mints, post offices, prisons, and cemeteries - these were all in Western-style buildings. The people of Siam lived in Western-style bungalows, and Western-style shophouses popped up along our roads.

Architecture in the Modern era: Things were simplified as we entered the post-industrial revolution era which brought major political changes.

Architecture in the Cold War era: The US came into power and became a role model. The city center began to lose its significance, and later became just the Old Town as gentrification emerged in other neighborhoods.

Architecture in the contemporary era now: Bangkok is the dream destination for travelers around the world, and people start to yearn for the past and come back to the Old Town. Old buildings are restored and repurposed. The Old Town area becomes a magnet once again.

Architectures in the Old Town Bangkok are where the East and the West mix, and the old and the new mingle. They show us that Bangkok is not deterred by changes, and will continue to evolve over time.