The Grand Palace, Bangkok Thailand

King Rama I established Phra Borom Maharatchawang, or the Grand Palace, in 1782 when he also founded Bangkok as capital of Siam. Several of the 10 Chakri dynasty kings have made additions over the years to create an impressive example of Rattanakosin-period architecture. Also containing Wat Phra Kaew, the vast complex is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist attractions.

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The largest building, Chakri Maha Prasat hall (pictured below), was a collaborative work of British and Thai architects and artists, completed in 1882 by order of King Rama V. The immense T-shaped structure displays an Italian Renaissance style on the lower floors, crowned by three glittering Thai-style prasat spires with gabled dark-ochre roofs that look like the tops of a royal wat. The lead British architect wanted to crown the building with a dome, but a regent convinced the king to go with the spires as a nod to traditional Thai artistry. You won’t see another building like ... Travelfish members only (Full text is around 600 words.)

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