The Grand Palace is the "jewel in the crown" of the city of Bangkok, representing the finest flowering of Thai art and culture. Begun in 1782 by King Rama I, whose goal was to recreate the magnificence of the vanquished capital city of Ayutthaya, the Grand Palace is renowned as a glorious resource of Thai culture and decorative style. This text contains colour photographs, many of areas that are not normally accessible, capturing the palace's throne rooms, residential quarters and offices, as well as the impressive temple enshrining the venerated Emerald Buddha. It describes the history of the palace and its incredible ornamentation, and also includes an account of Thai ceremonies, a full list of the kings of the Chakri dynasty, notes on architectural elements, a glossary and further reading.