The Forgotten Heritage of the Rattanakosin Area

Abstract

In order to safeguard the vanishing traditions and the history of a city, it is necessary to document and record the forgotten heritage. The aim of this study is to raise public awareness of the cultural significance of the Rattanakosin area including ancient wangs (mansions) and shophouses endangered by the development of urban projects and the lack of good management leading to their deterioration. This includes Crown Property Bureau’s assets of historical buildings on Rattanakosin Island. The research results show that heritage buildings are being demolished and replaced by modern concrete structures. The main conclusion drawn in this paper is that: If the heritage buildings continue to be replaced with present day structures, in the near future the entire history of the Rattanakosin area might be lost.