The historic Ratchadamnoen Road is unarguably the most important passage in the old quarter of Bangkok. Commissioned by King Rama V following his 1897 European trip, it was styled after Champs Elysees in Paris and was meant to link the Grand Palace to the then new Dusit Palace. Democracy Monument stands at the center of the stretch, and government agencies and long-standing stores line both sides of the road.
The long road has historically been the site of various demonstrations and rallies, including the 14 October 1973 uprising to the more recent pro-Thaksin rallies.
See also: The Nitas Rattanakosin Exhibition Hall on Ratchadamnoen tells the history of Bangkok through multi-media displays, while Queen’s Gallery hosts eye-opening art exhibitions. Ratchadamnoen is also home to numerous eateries, including long-running Thai restaurant Methawalai, which was recently awarded a star by the Michelin Guide.