Bangkok Magazine: Royal Grand Palace - Phra Maha Monthain Group

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The Royal Grand Palace (continued)

The Phra Maha Monthain Group

This group of buildings is located in the central part of the Grand Palace toward the eastern side. It was the first group of buildings constructed by King Rama I and his own residence. He also used it for his coronation and has been used for coronations of all monarchs of the Chakri dynasty.

Phra-Thinang Chakradhat Phiman

This is the main building of the group and is a living apartment containing the Royal bed chamber and a large sitting room which now houses the Royal Regalia. It is the custom for the newly crowned King to spend a night in this palace to indicate that he has assumed the responsibilities for and power over the realm. the first few monarchs used this building as their living quarters but the Kings of later times built their own residences. They come here only to spend the night of their coronation in accordance with tradition.

Phra Thinang Phaisan-Thaksin

An important part of the coronation takes place here. On an octagonal throne the King receives the invitation from the representatives of the people to rule over the Kingdom. He also receives the Royal Regalia including the crown and the nine-tiered white umbrella from the chief of the Court Brahmin. In the middle of the hall is an alter where the symbolic guardian figure of Siam "Phra Siam Devadhiraj" was placed.

Phra Thinang Amarintha-Winitchai Audience Hall

There are two things in this hall which were made during the reign of King Rama I. The upper throne is in the shape of a boat which is now used as an altar and another in front of it which is surmounted by a nine-tiered umbrella. In the olden days this building was used as the formal audience hall where the King met with his officials to discuss state affairs. This audience hall is used for many ceremonies such as their majesties birthday rites and merit making ceremonies. The King also received the credentials of foreign envoys in this hall

Phra Thinang Dusida Phirom

This Pavilion was built in the time of King Rama I and originally made of wood. Bricks and mortar were added during the reign of King Rama III. This building was the robing chamber for the arriving or departing king by Palanquin or elephant.