Italian architecture in Thailand

Early 20^th century Italian style buildings across Thailand

At the start of the 20^th century, during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), several Italian architects including Annibale Rigotti, Mario Tamagno and Ercole Manfredi came to Bangkok.

Among them they designed a number of magnificent buildings including the Government House of Thailand, Hua Lamphong central train station, Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall, Maruekhathaiyawan Palace and the Bang Khun Phrom Palace.

First branch SCB Bank

The very elegant first branch of the SCB Bank was build during a time when Bangkok was known as “the Venice of the East”, because of its many waterways across the city. As the rivers and canals (khlongs), were the main way of getting around in those days, many buildings were build on the waterfront.

The building was designed by Italian architect Annibale Rigotti who came to Bangkok in 1907. He designed several other buildings, including the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall and Bang Khun Prom Palace.

This building was the first branch of the Siam Commercial Bank (SCB). The bank was founded by Prince Mahisara, brother of King Chulalongkorn, initially under the name “the book club”. SCB was the first Thai bank in the country. The first branch opened its doors in 1910 in the Talad Noi area in Bangkok, on the East bank of the Chao Phraya river.

Location: This building is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya river in the Talad Noi area, just North of the River City shopping complex. The nearest Chao Phraya express river boat pier is the Marine Department pier.

Government House of Thailand

This majestic building with a large lawn in front of it resembles a Royal Palace. It was designed by two Italian architects, Annibale Rigotti and Ercole Manfredi. The structure was build in 1925 in Venetian architectural style by order of King Vajiravudh (Rama VI).

The building, that was called Villa Norasingh or Baan Norasingh at time time, was constructed as a private mansion for one of the King’s generals. In 1941 the building was sold to the Thai government.

The Italian influence in its style is very clear. The front of the building reminds of the Ca' d'Oro Palace in Venice, Italy. On top of the structure, above the main entrance is a shrine dedicated to Brahma.

The Government House of Thailand complex consists of several structures, including the main building named the Thai Ku Fa building which houses the office of the Prime Minister. The meetings of the cabinet take place here and it is used for several official state functions. The building is not open to visitors, with the exception of children’s day on the second Saturday in January.

Location: The Thai Government House is located at the intersection of Phitsanulok Road and Ratchadamnoen Nok Road, a few hundred meters South of the Dusit Palace complex.

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More Italian style buildings

Other Italian style buildings in Thailand are:

• Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall
• Bang Khun Phrom Palace
• Maruekhathaiyawan Palace
• Hua Lamphong Train Station