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149-655: The progressive reforms of King Chulalongkorn aroused the ire of Prince Vichaichan and the nobility, who saw their power and influence being slowly eroded. A fire in the Grand Palace led to an open confrontation between the two factions, prompting Vichaichan to flee to the British Consulate . The stalemate was finally resolved with the presence of Sir Andrew Clarke , the Governor of the Straits Settlements , who supported

298-487: A constitutional monarchy . From then on the country was ruled by a succession of military leaders installed after coups d'état, the most recent in May 2014 , and a few democratic intervals. The 2007 Constitution (drafted by a military-appointed council, but approved by a referendum) was annulled by the 2014 coup-makers who ran the country as a military dictatorship. Thailand has so far had seventeen Constitutions . Throughout,

447-508: A solar eclipse in Prachuap Khiri Khan province , dying six weeks later on 1 October. The young Chulalongkorn, who was only 15 years old at the time, was unanimously declared king by a council of high-ranking nobility, princes of the Chakri dynasty and monks. The council was presided over by Si Suriyawongse who was also appointed Regent for the young King. During the meeting when one of

596-599: A conciliatory disposition towards his royal cousin. Afterwards the king asked Clarke to put the terms on paper. After dining with Si Suriyawongse on board the Valiant, the Governor gave the 70-year-old ex-Regent a lecture on sowing dissension in the royal family and "the duty of thinking of his country before everything" . He also called a meeting between the different consuls in Bangkok to put before them his plan of reconciliation between

745-671: A few nights here after their respective coronations in accordance with tradition. Between the Chakraphat Phiman and Phaisan Thaksin Halls is a small Front Reception Hall, where the king could receive courtiers while sitting on a small platform. There are two doors on either side of the platform leading into the royal apartments behind. To the rear and south of the Chakraphat Phiman Hall is the Back Reception Hall. This rear hall

894-525: A floral design with Chinese and Western influences. The eight columns are inlaid with glass mosaic. The inner platform is decorated with black lacquer and glass mosaic. The top of the platform is made out of a single panel of teak measuring 1.50 by 2 metres (4.9 ft × 6.6 ft). The pavilion was strengthened and given a marble base by King Rama IX in 1963. To the northeast is the Ho Sastrakhom (หอศาสตราคม; RTGS :  Ho Sattrakhom ) or

1043-599: A great measure stopped" . When Clarke arrived in Bangkok on 18 February on HMS  Valiant (commanded by Admiral Alfred Ryder ), Newman came on board to report that there has been no change in the situation. It was clear that Newman and the Consul's staff were on the side of Vichaichan and had wanted to support him against the King. They suggested to Clarke that Vichaichan should be sent to British Burma for his own safety. On 20 February Chulalongkorn formally gave audience to Clarke at

1192-530: A large extent the nobility and the Bunnags themselves. The crisis also brought the end to the councils of the nobility — from then on only those in the Privy Council were given any role in the administration of the kingdom. The ignominious ending of the dependent relationship between the king and his nobles meant that from then on all ministers of state, high-ranking military and government officials were drawn not from

1341-469: A new group of grander throne halls to replace the old structures. The first phase of construction began in 1868, then again in 1876, and the final phase between 1882 and 1887. King Rama V resided in the palace until 1910 when he gradually moved to the new Dusit Palace, to the north of the Grand Palace. King Rama VI occasionally stayed in the palace; however he preferred his other residences in the country. By

1490-437: A new residential pavilion called Phra Tamnak Tuek (พระตำหนักตึก) was constructed for his mother, Princess Mother Sri Sulalai . The new residence was composed of several low-lying buildings and pavilions. King Rama IV expanded the residence and gave it to his consort Queen Debsirindra . Within these buildings King Rama V was born (in 1853) and lived as a child. When King Rama V ascended the throne in 1868, he decided to build

1639-519: A simple log palisade . On 10 June 1782, the king ceremonially crossed the river from Thonburi to take permanent residence in the new palace. Three days later on 13 June, the king held an abbreviated coronation ceremony , thus becoming the first monarch of the new Rattanakosin Kingdom . Over the next few years the king began replacing wooden structures with masonry, rebuilding the walls, forts, gates, throne halls and royal residences. This rebuilding included

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1788-554: A special ceremony. The weapons and special amulets were then distributed to soldiers before battle. As a result of this function the windows and doors of the hall are decorated with depictions of ancient weapons. On each side of the Phaisan Thaksin Throne Hall is a Buddha image hall. On the east side is the Ho Suralai Phiman (หอพระสุราลัยพิมาน; RTGS :  Ho Phra Suralai Phiman ), which then connects to

1937-485: A sword. To the southeast is the Phra Thinang Racharuedee (พระที่นั่งราชฤดี; RTGS :  Phra Thi Nang Ratcha Ruedi ), a Thai-style pavilion constructed during the reign of King Rama VI as an outdoor audience chamber. The pavilion was constructed for use especially during the birthday celebrations of the king. Originally King Rama IV had a two-story, European-style building constructed. Its purpose

2086-660: A white seven-tiered umbrella. It is used during the first part of the Coronation ceremony , where the king is anointed with holy water, just prior to the crowning ceremony; all Chakri kings have gone through this ancient ritual. Once the king is anointed he is able to sit under the Royal Nine-Tiered Umbrella as a fully sovereign king. Across the hall to the western side is the Phatharabit Throne ( พระที่นั่งภัทรบิฐ ; RTGS :  Phatthrabit ). The throne

2235-611: Is flanked by two residential halls. These are reserved for members of the Royal Family and royal consorts from the Inner Court. They are called: Thepsathan Philat Hall (พระที่นั่งเทพสถานพิลาศ) (to the east) and the Thepassana Philai Hall (พระที่นั่งเทพอาสน์พิไล; RTGS :  Theppha At Phailai ) (to the west). Apart from these grand state buildings, there are also several minor structures and pavilions surrounding

2384-410: Is Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti , although it is up to the king's discretion whether Prince Dipangkorn will be named Crown Prince in the future. Succession to the throne is governed by the 1924 Palace Law of Succession , promulgated by King Vajiravudh . Palace law follows the male agnatic primogeniture , where males only are allowed to succeed and inheritance is passed only from father to son and through

2533-456: Is a chair with a footstool (more akin to its European counterparts) with two high tables to its sides. The throne is topped by another Royal Nine-Tiered Umbrella. This throne is used during the main part of the coronation ceremony, where the King is presented with the various objects, which make up the Royal Regalia . The king will crown himself, then be ceremonially presented with the objects of

2682-513: Is a complex of buildings at the heart of Bangkok , Thailand . The palace has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since 1782. The king, his court , and his royal government were based on the grounds of the palace until 1925. King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX), resided at the Chitralada Royal Villa and his successor King Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) resides at

2831-405: Is a partisan chamber with seven political parties . The house is the primary legislative chamber and the more powerful of the two houses. The house has the power to remove both the prime minister and cabinet ministers through a vote of no confidence. The house sits for a term of four years; however, a dissolution of the house can happen anytime before the expiration of the term. The house is led by

2980-505: Is a powerful position with considerable influence. The leader is assisted by a shadow cabinet . The last general election for the house was in 2007. After the 2007 election the People's Power party (PPP) won the most seats with the Democrats and Chart Thai party trailing behind. However, after the 2008 political crisis and the ruling of the constitutional court on 2 December 2008, in which

3129-466: Is a tradition that no uncrowned kings are allowed to sleep within this hall. However once they were crowned they were required to sleep there, if only for a few nights, literally on the bed of their forefathers. In 1910, prior to his coronation, King Rama VI had a well-concealed modern toilet installed near the bedchamber. The king spent many nights here near the end of his life and died here in 1925. King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) and King Rama IX only spent

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3278-513: Is also the leader of the Cabinet of Thailand. The prime minister retains the prerogative to appoint or remove any minister. As the most visible member of the government, the prime minister represents the country abroad and is the main spokesperson for the government at home. The prime minister's official residence is Phitsanulok Mansion , a mansion in the Dusit district of Bangkok. The former prime minister

3427-652: Is composed of four distinct systems: the Military Court (which has expanded its power since 22 May 2014), the Court of Justice system, the Administrative Court system and the Constitutional Court. The Courts of Justice of Thailand is the largest of the court system and makes up the majority of courts in the kingdom. The courts as mandated in the constitution are composed of three tiers: the Court of First Instance,

3576-497: Is decorated in rich murals depicting scenes from Buddhist and Hindu mythology . The hall houses two thrones. The Atthit Utumbhorn Raja Aarn Throne ( พระที่นั่งอัฐทิศอุทุมพรราชอาสน์ ; RTGS :  Attathit U-thumphon Ratcha At ) or the Octagonal Throne is situated to the eastern part of the hall. This unusually shaped wooden throne is in the form of an octagonal prism and is decorated with golden lacquer, topped by

3725-680: Is decorated with a mural depicting the god Indra . The main central door is reserved for use by royalty, while others must enter through the adjacent side doors. Within the hall there are two rows of square columns, five on the left and six on the right, adorned with Thai floral designs. The coffered ceiling is decorated with glass mosaic stars. At the back of the hall is the Bussabok Mala Maha Chakraphat Phiman Throne ( พระที่นั่งบุษบกมาลามหาจักรพรรดิพิมาน ; RTGS :  Butsabok Mala Maha Chakkraphat Phiman ), flanked by two gilded seven tiered umbrellas. The throne

3874-463: Is further divided into three groups of ' Throne halls ' ( Phra Thinang ; พระที่นั่ง ; RTGS :  Phra Thi Nang ) and one Siwalai Garden quarter. The Phra Maha Monthien (พระมหามณเฑียร) group of buildings are located roughly at the centre of the Middle Court, therefore at the very heart of the Grand Palace itself. The traditional Thai style building group is enclosed by a low wall, as this

4023-630: Is located to the west side of the Phaisan Thaksin Hall and is also connected by a corridor in symmetry to the Suralai Phiman on the other side. The Phra That Montein hall contains several small gilded pagodas containing the ashes of Royal ancestors. Originally named Ho Phra Chao, the name was changed by King Rama II, who installed several valuable and ancient Buddha images in 1812. King Rama III and King Rama IV also have their own Buddha images installed here and carried out extensive renovations to

4172-530: Is shaped like a boat with a spired pavilion ( busabok ) in the middle. This elevated pavilion represents Mount Meru , the centre of Buddhist and Hindu cosmology . The throne is decorated with coloured enamels and stones as well as deva and garuda figures. The throne was once used for giving royal audiences. In the front of throne sits another, called the Phuttan Kanchanasinghat Throne ( พระที่นั่งพุดตานกาญจนสิงหาสน์ ). The throne

4321-553: Is the Phra Thinang Sanam Chan (พระที่นั่งสนามจันทร์). Built during the reign of King Rama II, the pavilion is a traditional Thai pavilion with a raised platform inside. King Rama II used the pavilion for relaxation and for sitting when supervising construction projects. Measuring only 3.30 by 4.50 metres (10.8 ft × 14.8 ft), the pavilion was portable and could be moved to different sites. The wooden pediments are decorated with gilded carvings and glass mosaic in

4470-435: Is the main venue where royal coronations are performed at the beginning of each king's reign, the last coronation ceremony held here was on 4 May 2019 for King Rama X. Formerly the hall was a private reception hall and living space of King Rama I. He often hosted meetings and dinners for his closest ministers and other trusted courtiers here. After his death the hall was converted into a ceremonial space. The long rectangular hall

4619-506: Is the northernmost and forward building of the Maha Monthien buildings, It is also perhaps the most important. The throne hall was constructed in Thai style as a royal audience chamber, for receiving foreign ambassadors and for conducting important state businesses and ceremonies. The large throne hall stands on a 50 cm high base, the roof is covered in green and orange tiles. The pediment

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4768-426: Is topped by the massive Royal Nine-Tiered Umbrella , an important symbol of Thai kingship . The different tiers represents the king's power and prestige which extends in eight directions: the four cardinal directions and the four sub cardinal directions. The final and ninth tier represents the central direction descending into the earth. These giant umbrellas usually deposited above important royal thrones, and out of

4917-444: The 2007 constitution , declared martial law and nationwide curfew, banned political gatherings, arrested and detained politicians and anti-coup activists, imposed internet censorship and took control of the media. On 24 March 2019, Thailand voted in the 2019 Thai general election , supporting a spread of opinion across many political parties vying to be in government. King Vajiralongkorn (or Rama X) of Thailand has reigned since

5066-627: The Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall , both in the Dusit Palace , but the Grand Palace is still used for official events. Several royal ceremonies and state functions are held within the walls of the palace every year. The palace is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand, with over eight million people visiting each year. Construction of the palace began on 6 May 1782, at the order of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok (Rama I),

5215-608: The Bangkok Metropolitan Area . The other 74 are selected by the Senate Selection Commission, made up of both elected and appointed officials. The chamber is strictly non-partisan, and members may not be a member of a partisan organisation, the House of Representatives, the judiciary, or the cabinet for five years. The Senate has little legislative power, but retains considerable powers of scrutiny and appointment as

5364-509: The British Government . Vichaichan was immediately condemned by a council of high officials (convened by Si Suriyawongse), a resolution was written accusing the Prince of seeking foreign intervention in an internal dispute at the expense of national sovereignty and royal authority. Chulalongkorn intervened before the document could be passed, by suggesting simply that they should try to invite

5513-527: The Constitutional Court's decision on 24 August 2022 to temporarily suspend Prayut Chan-o-cha's premiership due to the ongoing debate about his 8-year term limit, Prawit Wongsuwan took over the position to serve as acting Prime Minister. The Cabinet of Thailand or the Council of Ministers of Thailand is a council composed of 35 ministers of state and deputy ministers, who run the cabinet ministries of

5662-741: The For Thais Party (successor of the PPP) and the Pracharaj Party in opposition. The House of Representatives and the Senate were abolished after 22 May 2014 coup by the NCPO. Currently, according to the interim Constitution of Thailand imposed by NCPO, there is no House of Representatives. Legislative power is vested in the National Legislative Council, appointed by the NCPO. The judiciary of Thailand

5811-532: The Grand Palace the power it had lost since the death of his father. Spurred on by their Western education, Young Siam was intent on creating a centralized and strong nation under an absolute monarch . To achieve this goal, Chulalongkorn needed to implement radical reforms in all parts of the Royal Government . In 1873 the king established the 'Auditing Office' (หอรัษฎากรพิพัฒน์, now the Ministry of Finance ). It

5960-530: The Ho Phra Parit (หอพระปริตร), The hall is the same size as the Dusidaphirom Hall and the two appear to have been constructed concurrently. In accordance with ancient tradition, the hall was built for the use of Mon monks to create Holy water , which was then sprinkled around the palace ground every evening; this practice was discontinued during the reign of King Rama VII for financial reasons. Currently

6109-559: The Phra Ratcha Wang Luang ( พระราชวังหลวง ) or 'Royal Palace', similar to the old palace in Ayutthaya. However, during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV) the name Phra Boromma Maha Ratcha Wang or 'Grand Palace' was first used in official documents. This change of name was made during the elevation of Prince Chutamani (the king's younger brother) to the title of Second King Pinklao in 1851. The proclamation of his title described

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6258-520: The Royal Thai Government (RTG; Thai : รัฐบาลไทย , RTGS :  Ratthaban Thai , pronounced [rát.tʰā.bāːn tʰāj] ), is the unitary government of the Kingdom of Thailand . The country emerged as a modern nation state after the foundation of the Chakri dynasty and the city of Bangkok in 1782. The Revolution of 1932 brought an end to absolute monarchy and replaced it with

6407-865: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha ; the Outer Court, with many public buildings; the Middle Court, including the Phra Maha Monthien Buildings, the Phra Maha Prasat Buildings and the Chakri Maha Prasat Buildings; the Inner Court and the Siwalai Gardens quarter. The Grand Palace is currently partially open to the public as a museum, but it remains a working palace, with several royal offices still situated inside. The construction of

6556-401: The primary apartment and sleeping quarter of the monarch, and is the inner most part of the Grand Palace. The residential hall was formed out of three identical rectangular buildings, all inter-connected to each other. The middle section of the residential hall (out of the three), is a reception room while the other two sections, to the east and west, are divided into the personal apartments of

6705-636: The Amarin Winitchai Hall. Since then most buildings in its original plan remain, with occasional renovations being made before important anniversaries such as the Bangkok Bicentennial Celebrations in 1982. Except for the Amarin Winitchai Throne Hall, the rest of the complex is closed to the public. The Thevaphibal Gate is the central entrance to the hall, however the central doorway is reserve exclusively for use by

6854-622: The British and the French acting as guarantors on these terms. Because of the last item the offer was rejected by the council of the nobility and the King. As 'guarantors' the two prolific colonialists (the British to the west and the French to the east) would see it as their right to intervene in future Siamese domestic affairs. After much discussion both Chulalongkorn and Vichaichan were pressured by Si Suriyawongse to compromise, however no agreement could be reached. The crisis remained unresolved mostly due to

7003-522: The Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall and is the main portal from the Outer Court into the Middle Court. Historically this court was referred to as Fai Na ( ฝ่ายหน้า , literally In the front ), and also served as the seat of the royal government, with various ministerial offices, a theatre, stables for the king's elephants, barracks for the royal guards, the royal mint and an arsenal. By 1925, all government agencies and workers had vacated

7152-629: The Council of Ministers for further submission to the National Assembly for approval. In this regard, the name of a Princess may be submitted. Upon the approval of the National Assembly, the President of the National Assembly shall invite such Successor to ascend the Throne and proclaim such Successor as King. Since 1932 the head of government of Thailand has been the Prime Minister of Thailand, usually

7301-523: The Court of Appeals, and the Supreme Court of Justice of Thailand. There are no verbatim transcripts kept by the trial court. The court record is composed of the courts decision. Research judges assist the sitting judges. Judges must take an examination and two different examinations are given: one exam is for judges trained in Thailand and a different examination is given for judges who graduate from foreign law schools. All judges are formally appointed by

7450-558: The Dusitsasada Gate. The Ho Suralai Phiman is a small Thai-style building which is attached to the Phaisan Thaksin Throne Hall through a short corridor . The hall houses important and valuable Buddha images and figures, including one representing each and every reign of the Chakri dynasty. Some relics of the Buddha are also reportedly kept here. The Ho Phra That Monthien (หอพระธาตุมณเฑียร)

7599-598: The Front Palace to return instead. Vichaichan refused reconciliation and remained in the British Consulate with the support of both British and French representatives. The king followed Si Suriyawongse's advice by having his ministers offer Vichaichan amnesty. As punishment he must relinquish the title of Vice King , but again Vichaichan refused. As a counter offer Vichaichan wanted to keep his men and his revenues, with

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7748-758: The Governor' asked Vichaichan to send a letter laying out his case, Vichaichan wrote that: "Some foolish men, wishing to change the customs and usages of the country, has turned the king against him."' The King, Governor Clarke and Admiral Ryder met again at the home of the American missionary Reverend J.H. Chandler, whose service as a translator was needed in the final document. The document itself ended with words from Chulalongkorn to Vichaichan: "I beg you, who sign these Articles of Reconciliation, to have Full faith in me that I will assuredly devise no mischief whatever to Krom Phra Rachawang [Vichaichan], which would be unjust, and I will keep to these Articles in every respect." On

7897-509: The Grand Palace began on 6 May 1782, at the order of King Phutthayotfa Chulalok (Rama I). Having seized the crown from King Taksin of Thonburi , King Rama I was intent on building a capital city for his new Chakri dynasty . He moved the seat of power from the city of Thonburi , on the west side of the Chao Phraya River , to the east side at Bangkok . The new capital city was turned into an artificial island when canals were dug along

8046-439: The Grand Palace is situated to the northwest of the palace (the northeast being occupied by the Temple of the Emerald Buddha). Entering through the main Visetchaisri Gate, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is located to the left, with many public buildings located to the right. These buildings include the headquarters and information centre of the Grand Palace and the Bureau of the Royal Household . Other important buildings inside

8195-468: The Grand Palace; the meeting took over three hours. During the meeting Clarke assured the king that he had no intention of interfering in the dynastic conflict of the House of Chakri , but he was determined to reaffirm the King's power over the Kingdom's finances and military against that of Vichaichan's powers. The Governor asked the king to dictate his terms in full. The king also gave reassurance to Clarke that he had no wish to harm Vichaichan, and displayed

8344-434: The Outer Court, the Middle Court, the Inner Court and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Each of these court's functions and access are clearly defined by laws and traditions. The Outer Court is in the northwestern part of the Grand Palace; within are the royal offices and (formerly) state ministries. To the northeast is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha , the royal chapel, and home of the Emerald Buddha. The Middle Court housed

8493-407: The PPP plus the Chart Thai and Neutral Democratic Parties (coalition partners), the prime minister and several party executives were banned from politics for five years, the composition of the house changed. The successor of the PPP still retained most seats, however the remainder of the coalition partners defected and joined a Democrat-led government which was inaugurated on 17 December 2008, leaving

8642-438: The Parliament of Thailand) of the Thai government was first established in the "temporary" constitution of 1932 . The assembly first met on 28 June 1932 in the Ananda Samakhom Throne Hall . The National Assembly of Thailand is a bicameral legislature and is composed of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The legislative branch took its current form in 2007. The national assembly has 750 members. Both houses of

8791-439: The Phra Maha Monthien structures. These include four smaller halls at the sides of the Amarin Winitchai Throne hall. Aside the wall to the northwest is the Phra Thinang Dusidaphirom (พระที่นั่งดุสิตาภิรมย์; RTGS :  Phra Thi Nang Dusitaphirom ). Built on a raised platform, the one-story hall was used as a robing chamber for the king when arriving and departing the palace either by palanquin or by elephant. Hence

8940-403: The Prince of wanting to be appointed himself, saying: "You don't agree. Is it because you want to be (Uparaja) yourself?" ("ที่ไม่ยอมนั้น อยากจะเป็นเองหรือ"). The Prince replied wearily "If you want me to agree then I agree" ("ถ้าจะให้ยอมก็ต้องยอม"). As a result, Prince Vichaichan, at the age of 30, was appointed Front Palace (Krom Phra Rajawang Bovorn Sathan Mongkol) and Second King without

9089-446: The Princes nominated Prince Yodying Prayurayot Krom Muen Bovorn Vichaichan as the next Front Palace, many in the council objected. The most notable objection of this nomination came from Prince Vorachak Tharanubhab . The Prince argued that the appointment of such an important position was the sole prerogative of the king and not of the council, and that the council should wait until the king was old enough to appoint his own. Furthermore,

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9238-455: The Royal compound and the king in any situation. Using this as his pretext, Chualongkorn ordered his guards to surround to the Front Palace compound in attempt to contain the situation. Once the confrontation began, Chulalongkorn and his ministers agreed immediately that the only person with enough clout to settle the crisis was the ex-regent Si Suriyawongse, who was in Ratchaburi province west of Bangkok . The king commented privately that he

9387-455: The Senate was in 2008. The Senate and the House of Representatives were abolished after 22 May 2014 coup by the "National Council for Peace and Order" (NCPO). The lower house of the legislative branch has been in existence in some form since 1932. The House of Representatives is the primary legislative house of the government of Thailand. The House includes 500 members. 400 of the MPs are elected directly from single-seat constituencies around

9536-406: The Senate is vested with the power to advise on the appointment of members of the judiciary and independent government agencies. The Senate sits for a set six year non-renewable term. The Senate cannot be dissolved. The Senate is presided over by a president of the Senate, who is also the Vice-President of the National Assembly. He is assisted by two vice-presidents of the Senate. The last election to

9685-399: The Speaker of the House of Representatives, who is also the President of the National Assembly . He is assisted by two deputy speakers. The leader of the largest party or largest coalition party will most likely become prime minister, while the leader of the largest party with no members holding any ministerial positions will become the leader of the opposition . The leader of the opposition

9834-502: The Supreme Administrative Court. The court system was first created in 1997. The court's main jurisdiction is to settle litigation between the state or an organ of state (government ministries, departments and independent agencies) and private citizens. First set up in 1997, the Constitutional Court of Thailand was created solely as a high court to settle matters pertaining to the constitution. The court has since accumulated huge amounts of power and influence, generating many controversies on

9983-404: The Wat Phra Kaew complex is separated from the living quarters of the kings. Within these walls are buildings and structures for diverse purposes and of differing styles, reflecting the changing architecture during the various reigns of the kings. Despite this, most of the buildings within adhere strictly to classical Thai architecture . The establishment of the Temple of the Emerald Buddha dates to

10132-418: The architect John Clunich and his helper Henry C. Rose to design and construct the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall. Construction began on 7 May 1876. At first the King wanted an entirely European structure with domes. However at the insistence of Chao Phraya Si Suriyawongse (Chuang Bunnag), his Chief Minister , the King decided to add the gilded spires and Thai roofs. In 1878 the King personally supervised

10281-421: The area of the palace from 213,674 square metres (2,299,970 sq ft) to 218,400 square metres (2,351,000 sq ft). New walls, forts, and gates were constructed to accommodate the enlarged compound. Since this expansion, the palace has remained within its walls with new construction and changes being made only on the inside. In accordance with tradition, the palace was initially referred to only as

10430-466: The basic structure of government has remained the same. The government of Thailand is composed of three branches: the executive, the legislative, and the judiciary. The system of government is modelled after the Westminster system . All branches of government are concentrated in Bangkok , the capital city of Thailand. From May 2014 until July 2019, Thailand was ruled by a military junta , the National Council for Peace and Order , which partially repealed

10579-420: The beginning of the crisis in an effort to rally foreign support for himself. Clarke as it turned out was very sympathetic to the King's reforms and situation. The king and Clarke had personally met in 1873, when the king had his second coronation after receiving his majority. During that trip Clarke was extremely impressed with the young King's zeal for reform and his modern attitudes, particularly his abolition of

10728-556: The buildings from Chakraphat Phiman (meaning 'Abode of the Chakravartin ') to Maha Monthien (meaning 'Great Royal Residence'). He carried out major renovations and spent most of his reign residing in these buildings. King Rama IV later added two arch-ways at the north and west side of the walls called the Thevaphibal and Thevetraksa Gate respectively. King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) added two portico extensions to eastern and western sides of

10877-411: The case of four Thai men accused of plotting to kill Supreme Court President Praman Chansue ( Thai : ประมาณ ชันซื่อ ). The accused were present in court 461 times before 91 different judges since proceedings began in 1993 and ended in 2008. While these proceedings continued, Mr Praman died in 2007. The administrative court system is made up of two tiers: The Administrative Courts of First Instance and

11026-486: The ceremonial halls of the palace, the king held a full traditional coronation ceremony in 1785. The layout of the Grand Palace followed that of the Royal Palace at Ayutthaya in location, organization, and in the divisions of separate courts, walls, gates and forts. Both palaces featured a proximity to the river. The location of a pavilion serving as a landing stage for barge processions also corresponded with that of

11175-464: The council was an effort by the king to shore up his own legitimacy and to create an elite he could rely on. In their inauguration speeches, the forty-eight councilors pledged allegiance to the monarch and his heirs. These reforms infuriated the conservative faction at court, the Old Siam composed mainly of old aristocratic families, as the financial reforms eroded some of their old privileges. Politically

11324-401: The country's administrative and religious centre. As the main residence of the monarch, the palace was also the seat of government, with thousands of inhabitants including guardsmen, servants, concubines, princesses, ministers, and courtiers. The palace's high whitewashed castellated walls and extensive forts and guard posts mirrored those of the walls of Bangkok itself, and thus the Grand Palace

11473-410: The country. The other 100 members are selected using " proportional representation " through party-lists . There are eight electoral areas from which the proportionally representative votes are taken and 375 constituencies. This system is called the "mixed member majoritarian" in which a voter has two votes, one for the constituency MP, and the other for a party in the voter's electoral area. The house

11622-682: The court include the Sala Sahathai Samakhom ( ศาลาสหทัยสมาคม ), used for important receptions and meetings. The Sala Luk Khun Nai ( ศาลาลูกขุนใน ) is an office building housing various departments of the Royal Household. The main office of the Royal Institute of Thailand was also formerly located here. The Outer Court has a small museum called the Pavilion of Regalia, Royal Decorations and Coins . The Phimanchaisri Gate opens directly unto

11771-478: The creation of the Privy Council meant that only royal favourites had access to political offices, depriving the old families of their influences. This group included Vichaichan, whose role in the finance and the government of the kingdom was slowly being eroded. Conflict between the opposing sides seemed inevitable. Vichaichan had the support of the British Consul-General to Siam , Thomas George Knox . He

11920-458: The crisis, when in fact Chulalongkorn only wanted to curb the Front Palace's power over men and weapons. This gave Si Suriyawongse the power to mediate between the factions in the crisis to boost his own control. In the early hours of 2 January 1875, Vichaichan fled his palace to seek refuge in the British Consulate (south of Phra Nakhon , in Bang Kho Laem ) and under protection and support of

12069-463: The death of his father Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) on 13 October 2016; exercising limited rule since 1 December 2016 . He is the head of state, aided in his duties by the Privy Council of Thailand . The constitution stipulates that although the sovereignty of the state is vested in the people, the king will exercise such powers through the three branches of the Thai government. Under the constitution

12218-432: The early morning, and come to me at eleven o'clock, when, as I must meet the wishes of my own people, I think it better that only Siamese should be present at our reconciliation, Your faithful friend, Chulalonkorn Rex" After spending a day and a night as guests of the king at the Grand Palace, Clarke and his company returned to Singapore. The final agreement stripped Vichaichan of the title of Vice King, although he retained

12367-518: The east side. The island was given the name ' Rattanakosin '. The previous royal residence was the Derm Palace , constructed for King Taksin in 1768. The old royal palace in Thonburi was small and sandwiched between two temples; Wat Arun and Wat Tai Talat , prohibiting further expansion. The new palace was built on a rectangular piece of land on the very west side of the island, between Wat Pho to

12516-460: The elephant-mounting platform to the west and a palanquin-mounting platform to the north. At first the structure was an open pavilion; the walls covered with rich murals were added later by King Rama III. The entrance is situated to the east and is lined with steps leading from the Amarin Winitchai Throne Hall. The hall is the only structure within the Grand Palace with exterior decorations. The golden lacquer and blue glass mosaic depicts angels carrying

12665-609: The evening of 24 February, Clarke and Ryder dined at the British Consulate, finally meeting with Vichaichan. The Governor put before him the terms of the offer. After much complaint the humiliated Vichaichan was forced to accept Chulalongkorn's terms in full. He had come to realize that these were the most favourable terms he could hope to receive and that the hospitality of the British was finite. That evening Chulalongkorn wrote to Clarke: "My good Friend, My private secretary has reported his conversation with Your Excellency. I am glad to agree that my cousin shall return to his palace quietly in

12814-508: The fact that the Front Palace's guards both outnumbered and were better equipped than the King's men, besides creating great unease and tension between the two kings. On the night of 28 December, a mysterious fire broke out after a small explosion within the walls of the Grand Palace . The fire quickly spread and was in danger of consuming the King's own residential halls and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha itself. The Front Palace guards immediately set off from their quarters to help extinguish

12963-418: The fire. However, they were turned away by the suspicious Royal guards, who suspected the fire was started by the Front Palace as an excuse to enter the Grand Palace under false pretense. fortunately, the fire was soon extinguished. Vichaichan had remained in his palace instead of leading his men to the Grand Palace. This was contrary to ancient custom, which dictated that he must take an active role in defending

13112-470: The forts and walls of the city. By the end they had completely leveled the old royal palaces. The bricks were ferried down the Chao Phraya by barges, where they were eventually incorporated into the walls of Bangkok and the Grand Palace itself. Most of the initial construction of the Grand Palace during the reign of King Rama I was carried out by conscripted or corvée labour. After the final completion of

13261-531: The founder of the Chakri dynasty , when he moved the capital city from Thonburi to Bangkok. Throughout successive reigns, many new buildings and structures were added, especially during the reign of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). By 1925, the king, the Royal Family and the government were no longer permanently settled at the palace, and had moved to other residences. After the abolition of absolute monarchy in 1932, all government agencies completely moved out of

13410-469: The full consent of the incoming monarch. The relationship between Chulalongkorn and the Vichaichan would remain difficult for the rest of the latter's life, based on this fact. On 11 November 1868 Vichaichan's cousin Chulalongkorn was crowned Supreme King of Siam at the Grand Palace . On 20 September 1873 King Chulalongkorn formally reached his majority at the age of 20, resulting in the dissolution of

13559-520: The guards occurs at the front courtyard every two hours. The Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat (พระที่นั่งจักรีมหาปราสาท; RTGS :  Phra Thi Nang Chakkri Maha Prasat ) is situated on the northernmost part of the Phra Thinang Chakri group. The throne hall forms the front or the façade of the entire building group. In front of the throne hall is the Rathakit Field; on either side of

13708-579: The interior and exterior. The Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat buildings are composed of nine major and minor halls, structured in a similar scheme to the Maha Monthien Halls from north to south, however the two building groups contrasts greatly in styles. This group of palaces is situated at the centre, between the Maha Montein and Maha Prasat groups. The whole of the Chakri Maha Prasat group

13857-413: The king is given very little power, but remains a figurehead and symbol of the Thai nation. As the head of state , however, he is given some powers and has a role to play in the workings of government. According to the constitution, the king is head of the armed forces . He is required to be Buddhist as well as the defender of all faiths in the country. The king also retained some traditional powers such as

14006-403: The king over his cousin. The Front Palace was afterwards stripped of its power, and after Vichaichan's death in 1885 the title was abolished. Since the elevation of Vice King Pinklao by his brother King Mongkut (Rama IV) twenty years earlier, the office of Front Palace had gained a considerable amount of power and prestige. Since Siam did not have a law of succession, the position of Vice King

14155-606: The king, others must enter through the two other doors on either side. The gate is guarded by Chinese-style statues, including mythical warriors and lions. The gate is topped by three Thai-style spires covered in Chinese ceramics. The Phra Thinang Amarin Winitchai Mahaisuraya Phiman ( พระที่นั่งอมรินทรวินิจฉัยมไหสูรยพิมาน ) or, in brief, the Phra Thinang Amarin Winitchai ( พระที่นั่งอมรินทรวินิจฉัย )

14304-419: The king. The Asian Human Rights Commission called the Thai legal system a "mess" and called for a drastic overhaul of Thailand's criminal procedures. It cited the rampant use of forced confessions, and the fact that even a senior justice ministry official admitted that 30% of cases went to court with no evidence. It also criticised the judiciary for failing to ensure that trials are conducted speedily, citing

14453-461: The king. The east section is the primary bedchamber of the monarch; the hall is divided into two rooms by a golden screen. The northern room contains a canopied bed originally belonging to King Rama I; above this bed hangs a Royal Nine-tiered Umbrella. The southern room contains the dressing and privy chamber, above which hangs another Nine-tiered Umbrella. The west section was used as a multi-purpose hall for minor ceremonies and audiences; however in

14602-512: The kingdom. There are 20 cabinet ministries, accounting for the main portion of state employees. The cabinet is responsible for the formulation and execution of policies of the government. Members of the cabinet do not necessarily need to be members of the lower house as in other countries, but most often are. The Office of the Prime Minister and the cabinet offices occupy the Government House of Thailand . The legislative branch (also called

14751-410: The leader of the largest party or the largest coalition party in the lower house of parliament. The prime minister is, in accordance with the constitution, selected, first by an election in the lower house (According to the B.E.2560 Constitution, The Prime Minister will be elected by both houses till Next 5 years), then officially appointed by the King. The prime minister, head of the executive branch ,

14900-461: The male line only. However, the 1974 amendment to the Thai constitution allows for a princess to ascend the throne and this particular provision is retained under Section 21 of the 2017 Constitution which reads: In the case where the Throne becomes vacant and the King has not appointed an Heir under paragraph one, the Privy Council shall submit the name of the Successor to the Throne under section 20 to

15049-431: The most important state apartments and ceremonial throne halls of the king. The Inner Court, at the south end of the complex, was reserved only for females, as it housed the king's harem. During the reign of King Phutthaloetla Naphalai (Rama II), the area of the Grand Palace was expanded southwards up to the walls of Wat Pho. Previously this area was home to offices of various palace officials. This expansion increased

15198-473: The national assembly meet at the Sappaya-Sapasathan . The upper house of the legislative branch was first established in 1946. However, for most of its history the Senate has been the stronghold of the military and the elite. The current Senate has 150 members. Seventy-six members are elected, one per province from 75 provinces of Thailand ( Bueng Kan does not have an elected senator yet) and one from

15347-409: The nobility but almost exclusively from the House of Chakri (primarily of Chulalongkorn's own brothers), a situation that was not rectified until 1932 . Although his power and authority for the first time since his coronation was unchallenged, Chulalongkorn and Young Siam decided to slow down and at times suspend their reforms altogether. Writing to Clarke a year later that he had decided: "to defer

15496-628: The old palace. To the north of the Grand Palace there is a large field, the Thung Phra Men (now called Sanam Luang ), which is used as an open space for royal ceremonies and as a parade ground. There was also a similar field in Ayutthaya, which was used for the same purpose. The road running north leads to the Front Palace , the residence of the Vice King of Siam. The Grand Palace is divided into four main courts, separated by numerous walls and gates:

15645-524: The palace. In shape, the palace complex is roughly rectangular and has a combined area of 218,400 square metres (2,351,000 sq ft), surrounded by four walls. It is situated on the banks of the Chao Phraya River at the heart of the Rattanakosin Island , today in the Phra Nakhon District . The Grand Palace is bordered by Sanam Luang and Na Phra Lan Road to the north, Maharaj Road to

15794-436: The personification of the nation to be used as a palladium for worship. The golden figure depicts a standing deity, dressed in royal regalia, wearing a crown and holding a sword in its right hand. The figure is about 8 inches tall, and is housed in a Chinese-style cabinet in the middle of the Phaisan Thaksin Hall facing south. There are also other figures of the same scale depicting other Hindu gods and goddesses. The figure

15943-422: The position was not hereditary and the appointment of the son of the former could set a dangerous precedent. The nomination of Vichaichan however was supported by the powerful Regent Chao Phraya Si Suriyawongse (Chuang Bunnag) who wanted to secure a line of succession by appointing an able and experienced Front Palace (as the first-in-line to the throne). Si Suriyawongse was determined, he retorted by accusing

16092-552: The power to appoint his heirs, the power to grant pardons, and the royal assent . The king is also head of the House of Chakri , the ruling house of Thailand founded by King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke (or Rama I) in 1782. The monarchy and the royal family continues to command huge respect in Thailand, with its influence peaking during the Bhumibol Adulyadej reign. He wielded a great deal of popular respect and moral authority , which

16241-401: The powers of Vichaichan, and also deprived the nobility and the conservatives of a leader who could really challenge the king and his reforms. After the crisis Vichaichan was consigned to his palace and his role in the administration of the Kingdom ceased to exist. The crisis also led to the decline of Si Suriyawongse, who quietly withdrew from politics and retired after the crisis ended, and to

16390-455: The primary place of residence of the monarch and his court. By 1925 this gradual move out of the palace was complete. The growth and centralization of the Siamese state also meant that the various government ministries have grown in size and were finally moved out of the Grand Palace to their own premises. Despite this the Grand Palace remained the official and ceremonial place of residence as well as

16539-464: The prosecution of further plans of reform until I shall find some demand for them among the leaders of my people. I have not relinquished them, but act, according to my opportunities." The terms of his agreement with Vichaichan were kept until the latter's death. Vichaichan died on 28 August 1885 at the age of 47. After his death the office of Front Palace was left vacant until 14 January 1886, when Chulalongkorn's son with Princess Consort Savang Vadhana

16688-419: The prostration and crawling required by subjects in the presence of the King. Clarke immediately requested instructions from London , pointing out that if Britain did not intervene then France would. The Colonial Secretary Lord Carnarvon quickly directed Clarke to go to Bangkok as soon as possible, for as Newman reported: "There is little likelihood of a settlement being effected, and trade and commerce are in

16837-1490: The raising of the final central spire of the building. The throne hall was completed in 1882, on the centenary of the House of Chakri and the Grand Palace. Thus the new throne hall was given the name Phra Thinang Chakri , meaning literally 'the seat of the Chakris'. Royal Thai Government Vajiralongkorn (Rama X) Dipangkorn Rasmijoti Paetongtarn Shinawatra ( PTP ) Phumtham Wechayachai ( PTP ) Suriya Juangroongruangkit ( PTP ) Anutin Charnvirakul ( BTP ) Pirapan Salirathavibhaga ( UTN ) Pichai Chunhavajira ( PTP ) Prasert Jantararuangtong ( PTP ) Wan Muhamad Noor Matha ( PCC ) Mongkol Surasajja [REDACTED] Wan Muhamad Noor Matha ( PCC ) Pichet Chuamuangphan ( PTP ) Paradorn Prissanananthakul ( BTP ) Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut ( PP ) [REDACTED] Mongkol Surasajja Kriangkrai Srirak Bunsong Noisophon President: Chanakarn Theeravechpolkul President: Prasitsak Meelarp President: Nakarin Mektrairat Diplomatic missions of / in Thailand Passport Visa requirements Visa policy Borders : Cambodia Laos Malaysia Myanmar (Maritime : India Indonesia Vietnam) Foreign aid The Government of Thailand , officially

16986-878: The regalia by the Royal Brahmins . These include: the Great Crown of Victory , the Sword of Victory , the Royal Staff , the Royal Flywhisk, the Royal Fan and the Royal Slippers. Apart from being the setting of these important ceremonies, the hall houses the Phra Siam Devadhiraj figure. This figure was created during the reign of King Rama IV to symbolise and embody the Kingdom (of Siam), its well-being and safety. It exists as

17135-528: The regency of Si Suriyawongse. During the five years of the regency, Vichaicharn decided to limit his role and power out of reverence for the Regent, who arranged for his appointment. With the dissolution of the regency, Vichaichan was ready to reassert the powers of his office. Unfortunately, Chulalongkorn and his brothers (the Young Siam group) were at the same time trying to consolidate his own authority and return to

17284-412: The reign of King Rama III the hall was converted into a bedroom. After his death it became the storage place for the various weapons and accoutrements of the monarch. The Royal Regalia of Thailand is kept here. When the Chakraphat Phiman Hall was first built it was entirely roofed with palm leaves; later these were replaced with ceramic tiles, then with glazed tiles during the reign of King Rama V. There

17433-594: The reign of King Rama VII the buildings were in dire need of renovations, but due to economic constraints only the Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall was renovated. This work was carried out by Prince Itthithepsan Kritakara , an architectural graduate of the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris . Many of his works can still be seen today. During the reign of King Rama IX many of the buildings once more became so dilapidated that they needed to be demolished altogether. In their stead new halls were constructed in 2004 to replace them. Formerly

17582-411: The ritual is only practiced during Buddhist holy days by Mon monks from Wat Chana Songkhram . The hall is divided into two rooms; the northern room is a prayer and ritual room for monks, including closets built into the walls for religious texts. The southern room is a storage room for Buddha images and religious artifacts. During times of war, the potency of weapons was enhanced by the holy water in

17731-473: The royal chapel, which would come to house the Emerald Buddha . To find more material for these constructions, King Rama I ordered his men to go upstream to the old capital city of Ayutthaya , which was destroyed in 1767 during a war between Burma and Siam . They dismantled structures and removed as many bricks as they could find, while not removing any from the temples. They began by taking materials from

17880-574: The royal palace as the 'supreme' ( บรม ; Borom) and 'great' ( มหา ; Maha) palace. This title was given in order to distinguish the palace from the Second King's palace (the Front Palace), which was described as the Phra Bovorn Ratcha Wang ( พระบวรราชวัง ) or the 'glorious' ( บวร ; Bovorn) palace. Throughout the period of absolute monarchy , from 1782 to 1932, the Grand Palace was both

18029-568: The seven of which are currently in Bangkok, six of these umbrellas are situated within the vicinity of the Grand Palace and another is situated above the throne within the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall of the Dusit Palace. The throne is made up of multi-layered squared platforms with a seat in the middle. The throne is used for the first royal audience of each king's reign and for annual birthday celebrations and other royal receptions. It

18178-447: The site and all of the buildings were converted for use by the Royal Household. The Temple of the Emerald Buddha or Wat Phra Kaew ( วัดพระแก้ว ) (known formally as Wat Phra Si Rattana Satsadaram, วัดพระศรีรัตนศาสดาราม ) is a royal chapel situated within the walls of the palace. Incorrectly referred to as a Buddhist temple , it is in fact a chapel; it has all the features of a temple except for living quarters for monks. Built in 1783,

18327-607: The site hosted eleven different residential halls and pavilions; in 2012 only three are left, although they have been completely reconstructed: The Chakri Maha Prasat Throne Hall, the Moon Satharn Borom Ard Hall and the Sommuthi Thevaraj Uppabat Hall. Behind these structures lie the grand Borom Ratchasathit Mahoran Hall, which has been recently rebuilt. None of the rooms are open to the public, as state functions are still carried out within. The changing of

18476-468: The south, Wat Mahathat to the north and with the Chao Phraya River on the west. This location was previously occupied by a Chinese community , whom King Rama I ordered to relocate to an area south and outside of the city walls; the area is now Bangkok's Chinatown . Desperate for materials and short on funds, the palace was initially built entirely out of wood, its various structures surrounded by

18625-439: The stage set for elaborate ancient ceremonies of the monarchy. The end of the absolute monarchy came in 1932, when a revolution overthrew the ancient system of government and replaced it with a constitutional monarchy . Today the Grand Palace is still a centre of ceremony and of the monarchy, and serves as a museum and tourist attraction as well. The Outer Court or Khet Phra Racha Than Chan Nork ( เขตพระราชฐานชั้นนอก ) of

18774-440: The temple was constructed in accordance with ancient tradition dating back to Wat Mahathat , a royal chapel within the grounds of the royal palace at Sukhothai , and Wat Phra Si Sanphet at Ayutthaya . The famed Emerald Buddha is kept within the grounds of the temple. The temple is surrounded on four sides by a series of walled cloisters, with seven different gates. Like those ancient royal temples of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya,

18923-648: The throne hall are the Phrom Sopha Gates. The throne hall is constructed in an eclectic style, a blend of Thai and European (more specifically Renaissance or Italianate ) styles. The lower part of the structure is European, while the upper part is in Thai-styled green and orange tiled roofs and gilded spires or prasats . After a trip to Singapore and Java , in the East Indies (present day Indonesia ) in 1875, King Rama V brought back with him two Englishmen,

19072-498: The title and office of Front Palace. He was allowed to keep 200 guards of small weaponry. From then on the king also had a monopoly on all ships, weapons and ammunition. The king also pledged to guarantee and take responsibility for Vichaichan's financial rights and interests once he had: "placed the Finances of Our Kingdom on a more secure and firmer basis, so as to [...] prevent the waste of our resources." The agreement greatly reduced

19221-561: The title of Front Palace . At the same time he wrote, hinting to the acting Consul-General a Mr. Newman (Knox having returned to England earlier that year) that given the situation, he should send a British gunboat to protect British lives and interests. The Royal Navy steam frigate HMS  Charybdis was immediately despatched from Singapore to the Chao Phraya river for this purpose. Lastly, he wrote to Prince Vichaichan, hinting that Chulalongkorn favoured his execution as punishment for

19370-549: The two 'Kings'. He assured them that the terms offered by Chulalongkorn must be accepted and that it was in the interests of the commerce of all countries for the crisis to end. The consuls unanimously agreed with him. Vichaichan meanwhile had also requested a meeting with Clarke by sending him a letter of welcome. Clarke, who has been purposefully avoiding the Vice King, asked for permission from Chulalongkorn before any contact would be made. After he received Chulalongkorn's permission,

19519-591: The very founding of the Grand Palace and Bangkok itself. The largest and most important court is the Middle Court or the Khet Phra Racha Than Chan Klang ( เขตพระราชฐานชั้นกลาง ) is situated in the central part of the Grand Palace, where the most important residential and state buildings are located. The court is considered the main part of the Grand Palace and is fronted by the Amornwithi Road, which cuts right across from east to west. The court

19668-634: The walls of this building group. Construction began in 1785 at the order of King Rama I, the original buildings only included the Chakraphat Phimarn Throne Hall and the Phaisan Thaksin Throne Hall. Later King Rama II carried out major constructions including the Amarin Winitchai Throne Hall and other extensions. Later in his reign he added the Sanam Chan Pavilion and the Narai Chinese Pavilion. King Nangklao (Rama III) renamed

19817-646: The warm support given to Vichaichan by the Acting-Consul Newman and his staff. Vichaichan thus waited for British intervention and refused all reconciliation with Chulalongkorn. After the crisis reached stalemate, Si Suriyawongse advised the consulate to seek assistance by inviting an influential person to intervene. On 5 January, Newman contacted the Governor of the Straits Settlements Sir Andrew Clarke to Bangkok, presumably to mediate. Chulalongkorn himself had earlier written to Clarke at

19966-431: The west, Sanam Chai Road to the east and Thai Wang Road to the south. Rather than being a single structure, the Grand Palace is made up of numerous buildings, halls, pavilions set around open lawns, gardens and courtyards. Its asymmetry and eclectic styles are due to its organic development, with additions and rebuilding being made by successive reigning kings over 200 years of history. It is divided into several quarters:

20115-461: Was Yingluck Shinawatra of the Pheu Thai Party , the first female prime minister of Thailand. She was removed from office by the Constitutional Court of Thailand on 7 May 2014, on charges of abuse of power. She was replaced briefly by an interim prime minister, Niwatthamrong Boonsongpaisan , and then succeeded by General Prayut Chan-o-cha , leader of the 2014 Thai coup d'état . As a result of

20264-440: Was being forced to "Swim to the crocodile" . This demonstrated that the king was still incapable of asserting his will over the nobility, and needed the help of others to rule. Si Suriyawongse took immediate action, seeing an opportunity to redress the balance of power between the king and Vichaichan and perhaps increase his own influences. First, he advised the king to strip Vichaichan of the rank of Vice King but allow him to keep

20413-455: Was created to modernize and simplify the collection of state revenues and taxes to the treasury. At the same time, however, it deprived the control of nobility (as landowners) over tax farms , which for generations had constituted a large part of their income. The following years the king by Royal Decree created the ' Privy Council of Siam ' (สภากรรมการองคมนตรี). Copied from the European tradition ,

20562-489: Was cremated with great ceremony on the field of Sanam Luang on 14 June 1886. The Front Palace compound itself was partly demolished. The parts that remain were given to Vichaichan's consorts, daughters and sisters as residences (his sons were excluded). Today all that remains make up the main buildings of the Bangkok National Museum . Lands from the demolished parts were given to the new Royal Siamese Army (which

20711-418: Was envisioned as a city within a city. For this reason a special set of palace laws were created to govern the inhabitants and to establish hierarchy and order. By the 1920s, a series of new palaces were constructed elsewhere for the king's use; these included the more modern Dusit Palace , constructed in 1903, and Phaya Thai Palace in 1909. These other Bangkok residences began to replace the Grand Palace as

20860-740: Was founded in 1874 and benefitted from the merger of the troops of the Front Palace to that of the Grand Palace) as barracks and to the ministries of the new government. The Front Palace navy was also merged to that of the Grand Palace's to form the Royal Siamese Navy in 1887. Chakri dynasty Kings Viceroys Deputy Viceroy Crown Prince Hereditary Prince Royalty Siamese Foreigners Key events Grand Palace The Grand Palace ( Thai : พระบรมมหาราชวัง , RTGS :  Phra Borom Maha Ratcha Wang lit.   ' The Supreme Grand Palace ' )

21009-578: Was from this throne that King Rama II received John Crawfurd (the first British Envoy to Siam in almost 200 years) in 1821. Crawfurd was sent to Bangkok by the Governor-General of India Lord Hastings to negotiate a trade treaty. Directly behind is the Phra Thinang Phaisan Thaksin ( พระที่นั่งไพศาลทักษิณ ). The rectangular-shaped hall is a ceremonial functions hall, where the most important religious and state ceremonies are held. It

21158-457: Was made Crown Prince Maha Vajirunhis or Somdet Phra Boromma-orasathirat Sayam Makutrajakuman. The title of Front Palace, the heir presumptive to the throne first created in 1688 by King Petracha of Ayutthaya was thus abolished and replaced with an heir apparent , whose succession is to be based on the principle of male primogeniture . The new invented title brought Siamese succession in line with European tradition. Prince Bovorn Vichaichan

21307-475: Was once the residential and sleeping abode of kings. Thus it is considered the most important set of throne halls in the entire Grand Palace. All of the buildings within the Maha Monthien face north and are arranged from front to back with the public reception hall being at the front, ceremonial halls in the middle and residential halls at the back, all of them inter-connected to each other. All Royal coronations since that of King Rama II have taken place within

21456-426: Was once worshipped almost daily; today however religious ceremonies are only held to worship the figure during times of great crisis. The Phra Thinang Chakraphat Phiman ( พระที่นั่งจักรพรรดิพิมาน ; RTGS :  Phra Thi Nang Chakkraphat Phiman ) is situated behind the Phaisan Thaksin Throne Hall and is at the very centre of the Maha Monthien buildings. The hall was built during the reign of King Rama I as

21605-580: Was originally recruited by Pinklao to modernize the Front Palace's armed forces. After Mongkut's death, Knox greatly preferred the mature and experienced Vichaichan — who was also the son of one of the most westernized member of the elite to ascend the throne — over the young, unknown and radical Chulalongkorn. In early December 1874, Vichaichan received an anonymous letter threatening his life. In response he mobilized up to 600 troops and quartered them within his own palace . As tensions grew, King Chulalongkorn also mobilized his own troops. However, this underlined

21754-534: Was seen as the strongest claimant and was therefore also the position of the heir presumptive to the throne. The Vice King also had his own army of over 2,000 men, Western-trained and Western-armed. He also controlled a naval forces of several steam-powered gunboats . The Prince also had a large share of state revenues over one-third of which is given directly to him for the maintenance of his officials, retinue, court, concubines and advisors. In August 1868 King Mongkut contracted malaria whilst on an expedition to see

21903-415: Was the work of King Rama V and foreign architects in the 19th century. During the reign of King Rama I the area was once an expansive garden, later named Suan Sai (สวนซ้าย) or 'Left Garden', the twin of Suan Khwa (สวนขวา) or right garden, now the Siwalai Gardens. The two gardens were named according to their location on the left and the right of the Maha Monthien buildings. During the reign of King Rama III

22052-409: Was to display gifts from foreign nations; however when this building became dilapidated King Rama V replaced it with a Chinese-style pavilion which was again dismantled and rebuilt. The present pavilion measures 12 by 7.80 metres (39.4 ft × 25.6 ft). The pediments are decorated with a gilded figures of Narayana on a garuda against a white mosaic background. The southwest structure

22201-570: Was used at times to resolve political crises. The monarch's official home is the Grand Palace , however the present king lives primarily in the Chitralada Palace in Bangkok. The monarch's household was managed by the Bureau of the Royal Household and his finances by the Crown Property Bureau , But are being transferred to direct control by the monarchy. The heir presumptive to the throne

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