Fah Thai Magazine - Inflight Magazine of Bangkok Airways Issue Jan-Feb 2024

extraordinary Buddha sculptures dating
back to the 7th century.
King Narai’s reign transformed the
tranquil “monkey town” into a fashionable
destination for elites, including French
diplomats during the 17th century.
Constantine Phaulkon, a Greek
adventurer-turned-minister, forged an
unbreakable bond with King Narai from
Wichayen House, his residence just 400
metres north of the palace. Here, you
are immersed in the captivating tale of
how fate led Phaulkon to the Siamese
court and Lop Buri after his shipwreck in
the 1760s. With his adept trading skills
and proficiency in foreign languages, he
ascended to the position of trade and
foreign minister, becoming King Narai’s
most favoured and influential officer.
His grand European-style residence on
Wichayen Road features a church and, of
course, a wine cellar to host envoys from
King Louis XIV of France.
As you explore the ruins of Wichayen
House and wonder where the Burgundy
was stored, you’ll discover that life dealt
Phaulkon an abundance of twists and
turns. A shipwrecked Greek commoner,
he managed to earn favour from the
illustrious king of Siam and wed Maria
Guyomar de Pinha, renowned as a great
cook and also one of the most beautiful
women in Ayutthaya. Phaulkon’s story
took a tragic turn when he attempted to
seize the throne and was executed for
treason by Narai’s successor.
Lop Buri truly merits an extended
stay, thanks to captivating tales and
historical landmarks that weave a rich and
immersive experience.
A brief stroll to the west of King
Narai’s Palace leads to Wat Phrasi Rattana
Clockwise from
Top Right
King Narai statue at King
Narai’s Palace
The King Narai National
Museum unveils the
town’s history through
extraordinary Buddha
sculptures dating back to
the 7th century
Wichayen House presents
the captivating tale of
Constantine Phaulkon
– a shipwrecked Greek
adventurer who became
King Narai’s favourite
minister
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