No longer just a historical landmark, Phya Thai Palace is now all about light, as the palace plays host to a magnificent light show to celebrate its 101st anniversary.

“The Glory of Siam”, as the show is called, transforms the palace grounds into a magical wonderland of light, sound, and storytelling, inviting visitors to experience its rich past in a truly dazzling way.

This special occasion allows visitors to stroll through the palace in the evening, enjoying the gems of its architecture while basking in the illuminated spectacle.

As darkness descends, the palace awakens. Mesmerizing projection mapping transforms the Piman Chakri Throne Hall into a canvas, where images of King Vajiravudh (Rama VI)’s reign and his royal activities dance across the walls, narrated by a captivating soundtrack. It’s history brought alive in a way that transcends textbooks.

The two-story Piman Chakri, built in Romanesque-Gothic style, becomes the stunning focal point of “The Glory of Siam.” For those who have visited before, the projection mapping elevates the charm of this historical building to another level.

While the architectural lighting and projection mapping with the narrator’s voice at Piman Chakri might initially first capture your attention, most visitors pay their respects to King Rama VI first. He transformed his father’s building into a palace during his reign.

Many linger in Thewarat Sopharom Hall, where traditional music plays, immersing themselves in the ambience of that era. Some even don period costumes for photos and selfies inside the air-conditioned building.

This exquisite hall, built by King Rama VI with Byzantine influence, features a central dome and a curved roof. It served as the throne hall of Queen Saovabha Pongsi, and her initials, “So Pho,” are still visible. Later, it hosted important ceremonies, including the King’s Birthday, and served as a theatre and cinema. More recently in 2009, it welcomed state guests like Hillary Clinton.

Completed in 1909 by King Rama V, Phya Thai Palace initially overlooked farms and plantations. Briefly used by King Rama V, it became Queen Saovabha’s residence during King Rama VI’s reign.

Later, King Rama VI rebuilt the palace before ultimately moving to the Grand Palace. King Rama VII attempted to convert it into a hotel, repurposed it as a radio station, and eventually it became Phramongkutklao Hospital.

Today, the palace is open for public tours on weekends, providing access to the interior, “The Glory of Siam”, however, offers an exclusive nighttime experience centered around the theme of a night museum.

Admission is free for the first two zones. The ticket zone begins after passing the Piman Chakri building. Here, visitors are greeted by creatively crafted light installations inspired by King Rama VI’s royal works.

The entrance becomes another popular area for selfies, featuring a 20-meter blue tunnel, the color associated with the king. This area serves as a learning space, where visitors can experience first-hand, through projections and performances, the monarch’s literary works, including poems and plays. The centerpiece is his masterpiece “Matthanaphatha,” presented through a blend of imagination, light, colour, and sound.

Projection mapping on the rear of the Phaya Thai Palace, accompanied by performers on the veranda, creates another highlight of the dazzling light show It’s projected every half-hour from 7pm to 9pm.

Move deeper into the event and encounter the Roman Garden, where thousands of tiny lights twinkle amongst towering trees, creating a mesmerizing spectacle reminiscent of fireflies flitting through a moonlit forest.

Many visitors don traditional Thai dress of the Rama VI and Rama VII era to take photos here. A costume rental booth is available near the ticket area entrance. Prices start from 500 baht. For an additional experience, top-quality studio photography is available within the event, offering a period-specific backdrop for your photos.

After taking photos, you can end the tour by paying respects to the Buddha of Wang Phya Thai and the Thao Hiran Pana Soon Shrine. Alternatively, head to the food truck area near the exit for some refreshments.

Taking an hour to complete, but longer for photography enthusiasts and selfie lovers, “The Glory of Siam” is more than just a history lesson. It’s a sensory journey that ignites the imagination, especially for the younger generation.

It offers a glimpse into the way of life and culture of yesteryear, making it worth a visit for history buffs and anyone seeking a unique and captivating experience.

A palace in all its glory

“101 Years Phya Thai Palace: The Glory of Siam” is at Phya Thai Palace (within Phramongkutklao Hospital) and is open daily from 6pm to 9pm until March 16.

Tickets cost 200 Baht (online or at the event)

Getting there: Take the BTS to Victory Monument station and walk for about 10 minutes along Rajavithee Road.

For more information, visit www.phayathaipalace.org and www.facebook.com/101wangphyathai

By Thai PBS World Feature Desk