The lost forts of Rattanakosin

(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)

Above: Fort Mahakan in 2003

The lost forts of Rattanakosin - August 13, 2005 Asiper tells us about the lost forts of Rattanakosin: King Rama I ordered to build Klong surround the city to protect the enemy and then also build 14 forts such as Fort Prasumen (1), Fort Yukonthon, Fort Mahaprab, Fort Mahakan (4), Fort Mootaluang, Fort Sertayan, Fort Mahachai, Fort Jakpetch, Fort Phiser, Fort Mahalerk, Fort Mahayak, Fort Prachan, Fort Pra-atid and Fort Isinthon. We found an old map with the fort locations (left). Does anyone know which fort was which? When were they torn down? Did all the forts look like Fort Prasumen and Fort Mahakan? Do photos exist of the demolished forts? There is a thread about this on the forum.

(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)

Above: Fort Prasumen in 1992

---

What fort? - October 8, 2005

Is this one of the lost forts of Rattanakosin?

Wisarut comments: For the fort photo, it is unmistakably Fort Mahachai in front of Wang Booraphaphirom before its demolition in 1926. That photo is now kept in the National Archives. The tram (on the right side of the photo) that goes from Saphan Han area and turn left to Wat Liab is definitely the tram from Bang Lamphu to Wat Liab.

Below: Photo of the same area today. The highrise on the right is Thai Danu Bank. On the left, just out of site, is the Merry King Department Store. In the past this was an estate called Wang Booraphabhirom owned by Prince Bhanurangsee. The gate of Wang Booraphabhirom is on the left side of the old photo above.

(Photo: 2Bangkok.com)