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This characteristic landmark has immense historical significance. In
2475 BE (1932 AD), Thai people's quest for a constitution of their own
finally succeeded, initiating one of the most important sociopolitical
changes in Thai history. The system of absolute monarchy that dominated
the country for hundreds of years was abolished; democracy took over in
the form of constitutional monarchy, with the king as head of state.
The
Democracy Monument in the heart of Ratchadamnoen Avenue was erected to
commemorate this important event. Every part of the structure was
designed with symbolism in mind: The 75 cannons surrounding the
structure signify the year (in Buddhist Era), while the 3m-high bronze
central tray carrying the replica of the Constitution refers to the
third lunar month in which the change took place (June). The four set
of wings are exactly 25 m tall, same as the radius length of the base
circle; these signify the day of the event (25th of the month). The
bases of the four sets of wings are decorated with bas relief
sculptures depicting people and events that brought democracy to the
Land of Smiles. Finally, the six ritual daggers at the gateways
symbolize the six principles: independence, freedom, equality, internal
peace, economy and education.
The monument was
designed by Corrado Feroci, a sculptor born in Italy but moved to
Thailand by the royal invitation of King Rama VI. The famous artist
changed his name to Silpha Bhisari (Thai literature tends to remember
him solely by this name). He founded the first Institute of Fine Arts
and created many of the famous monuments dotting Bangkok's skyline
today.
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