
GRAND PALACE | EMERALD BUDDHA | RECLINING BUDDHA
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​TOP TIP: THE EMERALD BUDDHA IS LOCATED IN THE GRAND PALACE
The Grand Palace in Bangkok spans a 218,400-square-meter man-made island comprising numerous buildings, halls, pavilions, and temples arranged around lawns, gardens, and courtyards. It is located in the heart of the city, along the banks of Bangkok’s major river, the Chao Phraya.
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Construction of the Palace began on May 6, 1782, by order of King Rama I, the founder of the Chakri Dynasty, when he moved the capital city from Thonburi to Bangkok. The Grand Palace is divided into several quarters: the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the outer court, the middle court, the inner court, and the gardens quarter. Today, it is largely open to the public as a museum, though several active royal offices are still situated within the grounds.
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The Palace’s asymmetrical and eclectic architectural styles reflect its organic development over more than two centuries, particularly during the reign of King Rama V (1853–1910). Initially built entirely of wood, the palace was gradually replaced with masonry structures. Seeking additional building materials, King Rama I, ordered his men to travel upstream to the old capital city of Ayutthaya—devastated in 1767 during the war between Burma and Siam (Thailand)—to dismantle and transport as many bricks as possible, without disturbing existing temples. These bricks, salvaged from forts and walls of the old city, were ferried down the Chao Phraya River and incorporated into the Grand Palace and the surrounding city walls of Bangkok.
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Since 1782, the Grand Palace has served as the official residence of the Kings of Thailand. Kings, their courts, and the royal government remained on the palace grounds until 1925. Although the Grand Palace continues to host official events, royal ceremonies, and state functions each year, the Royal Family and government relocated to other residences by 1925, shortly before the abolition of absolute monarchy in 1932.
EMERALD BUDDHA
The Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew) in the Grand Palace itself is the main attraction. A figurine of the meditating Buddha made from one solid piece of green jade, clothed in gold and diamonds. It is greatly revered from the Royal family to Thai nationals alike, as Thailand’s utmost precious religious icon...
RECLINING BUDDHA
The Reclining Buddha (Wat Pho) is located 700 meters south of The Grand Palace. It is a world-renowned 46 meter long gold plated reclining Buddha. Its pose represents entry into complete spiritual enlightenment ending all worldly reincarnations. Within the surrounding corridor there are 108 bronze bowls representing the 108 auspicious characteristics of The Buddha. It is believed dropping coins into these bowls brings wealth and prosperity...
