Overlooking the Chao Phraya River as it follows its majestic course under the iconic Rama VIII Bridge, the portico balcony of Tamnak Yai — the principal building of Devavesm Palace in Bangkok — provides a view that is serene and spectacular.
“Not many people get to enjoy this view every day,” said Sumaivadee Mekasut, assistant director for Learning Center Management at the Bank of Thailand (BoT) — the present owner of Devavesm Palace. Sumaivadee has worked at the BoT for 37 years, the first 17 of which were spent as an archivist before she devoted herself to caring for precious collections at the BoT Museum and giving bespoke heritage tours for special guests.
Now approaching retirement, Sumaivadee recollects fond memories of Devavesm Palace, such as how the third-storey bedchamber at Tamnak Yai once served as an office for BoT Museum staff. Pointing to the far…
