Holiday Ayo - The dazzling and spectacular Grand Palace is undoubtedly Bangkok's most famous landmark. This is one of the must-see sights, a vacation to Bangkok would not be complete without capturing beautiful moments at The Grand Palace.

Built in 1782 and for 150 years it was the home of the Kings of Thailand, the royal palace and seat of government. The Grand Palace of Bangkok is truly old, which continues to amaze visitors with its beautiful architecture and intricate details, all of which pay homage to the creativity and craftsmanship of the Thai people.

Within its walls is also the Thai ministry of war, a state department and even a mint. Today, the complex remains the spiritual heart of the Kingdom of Thailand.

source: Travel Kompas

Within the palace complex are several impressive structures including Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), which contains the small but famous and highly revered Emerald Buddha dating from the 14th century.

The robes on the Buddha are changed by the HM King of Thailand – an important ritual in the Buddhist calendar. Thai kings stopped living in palaces around the turn of the 20th century, but the palace complex is still used to mark all kinds of ceremonies and other auspicious occasions.

The palace complex, like the rest of Ratanakosin Island, is laid out very much like the palaces of Ayutthaya, the former capital of Siam which was invaded by the Burmese.

source: Onarto

The Outer Court, near the entrance, was used to house the government departments in which the King was directly involved, such as the civil administration, army and treasury. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located in one corner of this outer court.

The Center Court is the residence of the King and the halls used to conduct state affairs. Only 2 of the throne halls are open to the public, but you will be able to admire the beautiful details on the façade of this impressive building.