Borom Ratchasathit Mahoran Hall

Behind the iconic Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall of the Grand Palace in Bangkok, a large banquet hall waits, unassuming in its presence. The Borom Ratchasathit Mahoran Hall, originally known by two names, the Damrong Sawad Ananwong Hall and the Niphatpong Thawornwichit Hall, stands as a testament to Thailand’s history and hospitality. It was once used to host foreign guests and dignitaries during the reign of King Rama V. It was built to impress, to showcase the grandeur of the Siamese kingdom and to welcome valuable allies. The hall was a symbol of Thailand’s openness and ambition. The hall was so beautiful and impressive, that the hall was also used for important state functions, such as the celebration of King Rama IX’s 60th Anniversary on the Throne in 2006. It brought together representatives from 25 monarchies across the world, a true testament to the hall’s enduring significance.
The Borom Ratchasathit Mahoran Hall, however, did not survive the test of time. The building, after years of neglect, was deemed too worn down and by the reign of King Rama IX, it had to be demolished. Construction for a new hall started in 1996 but was interrupted by the Asian financial crisis. It resumed in 2004, but by this time, the original hall was mostly forgotten. The new Borom Ratchasathit Mahoran Hall stands on a raised platform, a complex of several interconnecting buildings, creating two internal courtyards. It serves as a banqueting hall still today, a modern space for an ancient purpose.
The Borom Ratchasathit Mahoran Hall, as it stands today, is a reminder of the perseverance and resilience of Thai culture. It also serves as a reminder of the strong connections that Thailand has made with other countries. It is just another part of a place that holds so many stories, a place that continues to amaze and inspire.