Overview
The Grand Palace is a walled complex of palaces, halls and temples on Rattanakosin Island in Bangkok. It was founded in 1782, when Rama I moved the capital across the river from Thonburi and established the Chakri dynasty. The palace remained the residence of the kings until 1925 and is still the setting for coronations and other state ceremonies.
Description
Within its walls stands the royal chapel Wat Phra Kaew, which houses the Emerald Buddha, the palladium of the kingdom. The largest of the throne halls is the Chakri Maha Prasat of 1882, built under King Chulalongkorn and famous for joining a European classical body to Thai spired roofs.
History and legacy
Kings ceased to reside in the palace after 1925, but royal and state ceremonies are still held within its walls. Today it is regarded as Thailand’s foremost monument and ranks among Bangkok’s most visited sites.