The
Grand Palace is a major landmark in the City of Bangkok. This is
a complex consisting of a number of buildings and is situated on
Na Phra Lan Road. Construction on the palace began in 1782 and
its walls were completed a year later, during the reign of Buddha
Yodfa Chulaloke. It served for over a hundred years as the official
residence of the King and also as government headquarters.
The complex is home to the Wat Phra Kaeo; a temple which houses
the famous emerald Buddha, the golden chedi and statues. The
King’s official residence is located at the center of the
palace’s court and is among the Phra Maha Monthien Group
of buildings. In total the complex encompasses 33 buildings which
display the rich Monarchial History and Culture of Thailand between
the 18th and 20th Centuries. These buildings are classified in
four main groups:
The Phra Maha Monthien Group: this group consists of the oldest
buildings in the complex first built as the King’s residence.
Other groups added during later rulerships are; The Phra Maha
Prasat Group, the Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat Group and
the Borophiman Mansion and Siwalai Garden.
Entry Fees and opening times:
The complex is open to the public between 9 am and 3 pm seven
days a week and entry costs 125 Baht per person.
