Abstract:
This thesis is aimed at studying the history, backgrounds and development of
Bangkok, based on those buildings and structures on the banks of Chao Phraya River,
around the mouth of Bangkok Yai Canal to the Memorial Bridge, comprising Wichai
Prasit Fort, the Temple of Dawn, Kanlayanamit Temple, Santa Cruz Church, the
Memorial Bridge, the Phra Pok Klao Bridge, and Bangkok River Park Condominium.
These buildings and structures represent historical values and distinctive and
outstanding characteristics and serve as landmarks of the communities.
This study is based on a qualitative research method, starting from study on
historical documentations and photographs as well as the artistic styles of these
buildings and structures, and the survey of nine bridges crossing the Chao Phraya
Rivier in Bangkok to identify the point of overview perspective of the cultural
landscape and to comprehend the development of Bangkok City, including the survey
of the communities.
The study results show that the buildings and structures in question serve to
reflect social lifestyle in Bangkok City from the past up to the present time,
particularly areas around the mouth of Bangkok Yai Canal, which was the origin of
Bangkok City in the Ayudhya, Thonburi and Early Rattanakosin eras, namely, the
Wichai Prasit Fort which marks various traces of national safeguard and battles in the
past; Kanlayanamit Temple as a religious place for Thai and Chinese Buddhists; Santa
Cruz Church for foreigners; and Kudee Cheen community, including the Kudee Khao
Muslim community, which proves the habitation of several groups of people and the
peaceful and harmonious community of people of different nationals and religions. In
addition, the construction of the Memorial Bridge and the Phra Pok Klao Bridge also
serves to demonstrate the growth and prosperity of the city. Bangkok River Park
Condominium, a highrise building on the banks of the river, is a newly built residential
place in response to the people’s demand at present. The on-foot survey of the
communities on the opposite side also discovers a small community around
Anongkharam Temple, evidencing the simple way of life in old wooden buildings
remaining amidst the growth of Bangkok.
The cultural landscape of Bangkok City, as viewed from the Memorial Bridge,
serves as an open-air lively museum, and evidently represents a linkage between
history and the way of life of Bangkok people.