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Visiting the Emerald Buddha Temple (Wat Phra Kaeo)

Along the Chao Phraya river, inside the royal palace grounds of Bangkok, sits the Wat Phra Kaeo, better known as the Emerald Buddha Temple. It serves as the primary site for religious ceremonies in Thailand.

History

In 1782, Rama I declared himself king and moved the capital to Bangkok. He immediately began planning a new palace and temple complex. He was so devoted to the project that by the time the temple was completed in 1784, the royal family was still living in a wooden structure. The temple was built within the palace walls, located in the area now known as Rattanakosin Island. Historically, only the royal family was permitted to enter the temple. Monks from across the country performed the necessary rituals, but none were allowed to reside on the premises.

The Journey of the Emerald Buddha

The name of this statue is a bit of a misnomer. In the Thai language, the word for emerald also meant green. The statue is actually carved from jade, so it would be more accurate to call it the Green Buddha. History, however, has already set the name. The jade figure was originally housed in Chiang Mai at the Wat Chedi Luang temple. Following an earthquake, it was moved to Laos in 1551. It later arrived at Wat Arun before finally being installed at Wat Phra Kaeo on March 22, 1784, where it has remained ever since.

Beside the Buddha, you can see two marble vases donated to the temple by a European monarch. Inside the temple, to the east of the Ubosot (ordination hall), you will find forty-two copper Buddhas. These were commissioned by King Rama III.

This is a standard stop for anyone interested in religious architecture and the history of Thailand.