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The Democracy Monument - in the centre of Bangkok - was built to celebrate the 'start' of a new form of governance in Thailand - The Constitutional Monarchy. It is situated on Thanon Ratchadamnoen Klang - halfway between Sanam Luang and the Temple of the Golden Mount. It was not the most popular of buildings at the time - taking in the area occupied by mainly Chinese Thais. Their homes shops and general environment. Not only was is the Democracy Monument a size commensurate with its title, but it was given a 'vista' by the widening of the road on it now sits. It is further heightened by the fact that it sits in the middle of a busy intersection, and forms a 'traffic go-round'.
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In the centre of the monument area, there stands a carved stone box, with carving depicting the Thai Constitution. The four magnificent 'wings' of the monument are representative of the four armed Thai forces: Police, Army, Navy and Air Force. Together they colluded to carry out the historical coup in 1932. Thereby started the Thailand Constitutional Monarchy.
There are many carved stone works around and in the monument's area. they are all of historical and cultural significance. The armed forces figure prominently in many of the relief carvings. There is a panel for instance that is entitled " Soldiers fighting for Democracy."
The monument is somewhat lost during daytime, but is a splendid sight after dark - well lit up.
