Visiting the Thai capital is synonymous with knowing the Grand Palace, the most emblematic building in the city. Located near the famous Wat Pho temple, this residence is not only a symbol of the power of the monarchy, but also an icon of identity for the people of Bangkok.
Many years before Bangkok was recognized as the capital of the Kingdom of Siam, an old name for Thailand, there was a city called Ayutthaya. This was the economic, social and political center of the country, but it was also a constant point of conflict.
Among the numerous battles fought for control of Ayutthaya, only a few resulted in victory for the invading groups. Despite this, the fate of the city was sealed and it fell to its historical enemies, the Burmese.
When this happened, the royal power moved to Bangkok, where great buildings and incredible monuments had already been built, such as the Wat Pho monastery. To give more legitimacy to the new Siam dynasty, the Grand Palace was built near this temple.
However, the memory of the mythical city of Ayutthaya was still present, so the design of the new Royal Palace was based on the royal residence of the old capital. Also, many materials brought from the ruins of Ayutthaya were used to build this monarchical building.
When arriving at the Great Palace, the first thing that stands out is the great fence that protects it. This was created for defensive purposes, so that the house of the King of Thailand would not suffer the same damage as its predecessor.
Once inside, it is possible to appreciate the size of the structure, which stands out thanks to the magnificence of its buildings and the golden color of its roofs. Furthermore, the Grand Palace is actually an architectural complex, made up of more than 20 buildings.
Today, this is no longer the home of Thai kings, but it is still used for official functions, so only a few of its buildings are open to the public. Despite this, do not miss the opportunity to see the inside of the Grand Palace, since the things that are found here are simply incredible.
Among its treasures, there is the Jade Buddha, a sculpture of the Buddha carved in this precious stone, and that can only be touched by the king of Thailand. Likewise, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, which is located inside the palace and houses the jade statue, is the most important in the country.
Other essential visits are the Chakri Maha Prasat, a castle that combines European architecture with traditional Thai design, and the different chedis of the palace, places where Buddhist relics are kept, of great religious and historical relevance.
This is undoubtedly one of the most notorious tourist attractions in the Thai capital, but like all other constructions related to the royal family of the country, this palace should be treated with due consideration.
It is very important that you do not exceed the limits established for tourists, and that you keep in mind that you can only visit the Grand Palace when it is not fulfilling any state function.
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