The seven wonders of the Grand Palace, Bangkok, Thailand This dazzling complex at the centre of ceremony for Thai kings since 1782 forms one of the world’s greatest and most colourful architectural ensembles. See tourismthailand.org 1 Say hello to the palace guards The palace guards.
Credit: iStock The entrances to various parts of the palace are guarded by pairs of towering yakshas, the shape-shifting guardians against evil spirits that originated in Hindu mythology. Each is depicted dressed in elaborate Thai costume, holding an enormous club and baring their fangs. Some have green faces, others blue or red, and their ear jewellery, rings and jacket buttons vary.
The actual palace guards are less eye-catching, in dark blue pants, white jackets and pith helmets. 2 Be blinded by the beauty of Phra Mondop Mosaic wall at Phra Mondop. Credit: iStock This little library pavilion, which houses Buddhist texts, isn’t open to the public but is the Grand Palace’s most exquisite building: more a work of jewellery than architecture.
Exterior pillars support an elegant, multilayered roof that rises to a needlepoint, and the shimmering walls are inlaid with green mirrored tiles and repeated patterns of embossed gold Buddhas. Flanking the doorway are two extraordinarily detailed guardian warriors, glittering in gold and semi-precious stones. 3 Get the camera clicking in the temple compound The temple complex Wat Phra Kaew.
Credit: iStock The palace’s temple complex, Wat Phra Kaew, h.