Known for its beautiful renaissance architecture and interior design, Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall is one of Bangkok's major landmarks. It houses the royal throne and is still occasionally used for royal functions.
King Rama V had Italian architects designed the two-storey building. Construction began in 1908 using imported Italian white marble as the main material.  After eight years, during the reign of King Rama VI, the building was finally completed. The project cost 15 million baht, an outer-worldy amount for that period.
When the nation converted its governance system to democracy in 1932, Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall was used as the national parliament building where the House of Representatives held its first meeting. It was also the site where King Rama VII presented Thailand's first constitution.

Ananta Samakhom opens every day except Mondays from 10am to 8pm. Entrance fees are 150 baht for adults, both Thais and foreigners, and 75 baht for children, students and monks.

Tourism Division of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Office: 02-225-7612/4; www.bangkoktourist.com

Vimanmek Mansion: tel. 02-628-6300/9.