The Grand Palace in Bangkok was the official residence and administrative seat of the Kings of Siam for over 150 years. Its buildings mix traditional Thai spires and golden chedis with European-influenced grand halls, including the Chakri Maha Prasat throne hall.
The grounds are home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha (Wat Phra Kaew), which is surrounded by a gallery of hand-painted murals of the Ramakien, Thailand's national epic.