Democracy Monument in Bangkok: history, Ratchadamnoen Avenue and how to visit

Updated on October 9, 2026

The Democracy Monument (Anusawari Prachathipatai) stands in the middle of Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue, between the Banglamphu district and the old town. Opened on 24 June 1940, it commemorates the change of regime of 1932, which turned Thailand into a constitutional monarchy. It was designed by the Italian sculptor Corrado Feroci, who later became Silpa Bhirasri and is regarded as the father of modern Thai art. It is an outdoor monument, free to see at any hour: you look at it from the roundabout, in ten to twenty minutes. The numbers are symbolic: the four wings are 24 metres high (the 24th of June) and the 75 cannons around the monument refer to the year 2475 of the Buddhist era (1932). Our guide to Banglamphu places the monument in its neighbourhood.

Highlights

The monument from the front

Four concrete wings frame a central tower topped with a gilded urn, which holds a copy of the 1932 Constitution. Art Deco reliefs tell the story of the revolution and the new regime.

Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue

The wide, straight avenue was cut in the early 20th century on the model of European boulevards. It links the Grand Palace area to Dusit: the monument marks its midpoint.

The monument at night

Lit up in the evening, the roundabout changes character; cars circle it without a break, and photos are mostly taken from the pavements or the islands.

The reliefs

Around the base, bronze panels evoke the end of absolute monarchy in 1932: they deserve a close look if the pavement is clear.

The surroundings on foot

The Giant Swing and Wat Suthat, the Loha Prasat and Wat Saket are 10 to 20 minutes' walk away.

Practical info

Tips

The monument sits in the middle of a very busy roundabout: cross only at the crossings or footbridges, never by cutting across. The place is also a gathering point for political events; during demonstrations or royal ceremonies, barriers and checks may limit access and traffic. Avoid crowds, do not take part in protests and keep your passport or a copy with you. Read our rules and etiquette. There is no ticket and no official guided visit: plan a few minutes' stop on the way rather than a full outing. Information checked in October 2026.

How to get there

Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue, Phra Nakhon district. Metro: MRT Sam Yot station (Blue Line), about 1 km on foot. Boat: Saen Saeb canal, Phan Fa pier, about 10 minutes' walk; see our guide to the Saen Saeb canal boat. Bus, taxi or Grab: stops near the roundabout. See also our advice on getting around Bangkok.