The Grand Palace
If there is one attraction that trumps all others, then it is the grandeur of The Grand Palace. Upon entering the grounds, one cannot help but feel dwarfed by the lavishness of their surroundings as they are greeted by a vast array of architectural influences and colour. The architecture includes influences from Chinese to Khmer, Thai and even Italian renaissance inspired buildings such as Chakri Mahaprsat Hall. The rainbow of colour includes the blue, green, red, orange, and yellow tiles on the roofs of temples and on buildings that greet visitors. The intricacy of the murals on the sides of some of the buidings, done in gold leaf and paint; and the carvings and sculptures of lions and warriors are a testament to Thai craftsmanship.
The construction of the Grand Palace was built in1782 to be the residence of the Royal Family. It served as the exclusive residence of the royals for over a century. However, the present King, His Majesty Bhumibol Adulyadej, does not live in the Grand Palace - he lives at Chitralada Palace. It should be noted that the Grand Palace is not merely one building but a complex spanning an area over 200,000 square metres. The complex itself is designed to be like the palaces of the past that were located in Ayuttayah when Thailand was still known as the Kingdom of Siam. Although, the palaces of the past may have been burned down by the Burmese many years ago, the Grand Palace is a breathtaking homage to the rich history of the monarchy.
Aside from Chakri Mahaprasit Hall there are other notable tourist attractions within the palace. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha, or Wat Phra Kaew is one of them. Outside it is decorated with ornate gold decorations, inside is the where the small, but famous Buddha image is housed. Another thing to see is the giant golden Phra Si Rattana Chedi.
The Place is a place one can ill-afford to miss on a holiday to Bangkok.
