Equestrian Statue of King Chulalongkorn

This bronze equestrian statue in the Royal Plaza honours King Chulalongkorn, or Rama V, who modernised Siam and abolished slavery during his long reign. Cast in France and unveiled in 1908, the dignified figure sits astride a horse before the former throne hall at the end of a grand avenue. Each October, on the anniversary of the king's death, crowds gather to lay flowers and pay respects at the base. The monument anchors the ceremonial Dusit district and remains a focus of enduring popular reverence for the beloved monarch.