“The royal seat in the sky” whispers the name. Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall stands before you. Its elegant European villa style is unmistakable. This isn’t just a building it’s a living piece of Thai history.
Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall wasn’t always a royal residence. King Chulalongkorn Rama V initiated its construction in 1890. It began as the Ivory Garden. Later it became the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall. Its name translates to “the royal seat in the sky”. King Rama V himself resided here. He died within its walls in 1910.
It wasn’t always the King’s main residence though. Other monarchs used it. King Bhumibol Adulyadej Rama IX used it temporarily. He lived there while renovations took place at Chitralada Royal Villa. Once those renovations were complete in 1957 he moved.
While King Bhumibol lived there something unique happened. He established the A S Radio Station. He played jazz music with his band A S Friday. He even answered listener requests. People didn’t know they were talking to the King. His Majesty preferred anonymity.
The hall’s H-shape is striking. Two rectangular buildings connect by a bridge. The Amphorn Sathan and Udon-pak wings are beautifully connected. The exterior has curved porches adding to its charm. Inside the opulent style combines Art Nouveau and Napoleon III. Italian artists Galileo Chini and Annibale Rigotti painted the frescoes. Intricate gold trim and carvings decorate the furniture.
In 1972 Prince Vajiralongkorn now King Rama X received the hall as a gift. He became King Rama X there in 2016. Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall remains his home. It’s not just a residence. It’s a palace a symbol of Thai royalty. A place where history echoes. It’s a legacy. A legacy that continues to this day.