In another part of the same complex was the Grand Palace. This has been the official residence of the Kings of Siam (and later Thailand) since Rama I (founder of the Chakri Dynasty) seized the crown from King Taksin of Thonburi and moved the capital city across the Chao Phraya River to Bangkok in 1782.
We watched the changing of the guard with their perfect white uniforms.
A glimpse next door at Wat Phra Kaew
Behind the complex was the City Pillar Shrine. Just as the name advertises, it's a shrine around a city's pillar (lak muang). This one was probably erected in 182 as the first building in the new capital.
Passing a traffic circle on the way, with an tribute to the king and queen.
The City Pillar Shrine
The actual city pillar inside. Technically there are two. The taller one (in back) is the original; the shorter one was added later by Rama IV.
There was lots of praying going on. People would pour oil into burning pans in front of gold leaf covered images. There were tiny thin pieces of gold all over the ground.
We grabbed a taxi to Wat Saket (Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan) or Temple of the Golden Mount. It was started in the early 1800s on top of a hill but promptly collapsed because of the soft soil. Eventually it was successfully completed.
A long circular staircase wrapped its way up to the top. There were spectacular views of the city!
Heading back down
We caught a taxi back. Unfortunately the food market was already closing up (an hour before it was supposed to).
