The Grand Palace was begun in 1782 when King Rama I established the Chakri Dynasty in his new capital in Bangkok. He seized power from Thonburi, where the government had decamped after the Burmese sacked the old capital at Ayuttaya in 1767. The Chakri Dynasty still rules Thailand today, though the royal family lives at another palace in Bangkok now. The Grand Palace is still used for official receptions and other state requirements. The complex contains different buildings of different styles that reflect the various periods and preferences for monarchs since 1782.

No pictures are allowed inside the structures in the Grand Palace, but the interiors are elaborate. Each building demonstrates the symbols of royal power: thrones and rich furnishings.

Check back tomorrow for details of our visit to the Emerald Buddha Complex on the Grand Palace grounds.

Title quote: Anglicized Thai for “Grand Palace” so-named during the reign of Rama IV from “Royal Palace.”