|
 The
royal palaces of Thailand provide a fascinating glimpse of the
majesty and splendour of the Thai monarchy, and several of them
are open to tourists.
The Grand Palace: In the same compound
as the Temple of Emerald Buddha, the Grand Palace consists of several
Thai-style buildings with highly decorative architectural detail.
Built in 1782 by King Rama I, it was the official residence of the
Chakri monarchs until the reign of King Rama VIII. The Grand Palace
is now a museum and houses several important collections, including
the Weapon Museum, the Royal Thai Decorations and Coin Pavilion
and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Phra Nakhon Khiri Summer Palace:
In the reign of King Rama IV, the custom of building palaces in
different parts of the country for royal tours was revived. Palaces
built during the reign of King Rama IV display a mixture of Thai,
Chinese and Western influence. The most important palace built during
this reign is the Phra Nakhon Khiri summer palace in Phetchaburi
province.
Dusit Palace, Ban Puen Palace, Bang Pa-in
Summer Palace: Several important palaces were built in the
reign of King Rama V, most notably Dusit Palace in Bangkok,
Vimanmek Palace in Ko Sichang, Chon
Buri, Bang Pa-in Summer Palace in Ayutthaya
and Ban Puen Palace in Phetchaburi.
 Vimanmek
Palace: This splendid three-storey mansion was brought from
Ko Sichang in Chon Buri
to the compound of Dusit Palace. Known as the world’s largest
golden teak wood building, it is as much a work of art as the treasures
inside it. The rooms are filled with art objects from Europe and
photographs and gifts presented to the Royal Family from around
the world.
Mrigadayavan Palace: Built in the
reign of King Rama VI between Cha-am
and Hua Hin, this palace is noted
for its three-storey wooden pavilions facing the sea and is referred
to as “the palace of love and hope.” It is now an important
tourist attraction in that region.
Klai Kangwon Palace: This palace
between Cha-am and Hua
Hin is still used by the present Monarch and is occasionally
open to the public if no members of the Royal Family are in residence.
This is also applies to Phu Ping Rachanives Palace in Chiang
Mai, Phuphan Rachanives in Sakhon
Nakhon and Taksin Rachanives in Narathiwat.
|
