The Grand Palace. Bangkok, Thailand

On my last day in Bangkok, I headed out to the famous Grand Palace, located in the western part of Bangkok. Built in 1782, the first year that saw Bangkok as the new capital of Thailand, The Grand Palace was, and still is, a grand place. With an area of 716,500 Sq. Feet, the Grand Palace is tucked in by 4 walls measuring 6,233 feet! At its peak, The Palace held temples, all goverment buildings, and even the residence of the royal family. Even though all of these buildings are still there, only one is actually used for government work. The Temples, however, are as much of a beautiful sight to see as they're still used for everyday Buddhist practice. People arrive from all over Thailand (and the world!) come to these Temples to pray for their deceased relatives, to hope for a better future, and to meditate. The mix of people is incredible. I noticed that The Grand Palace has hired a few local artists to help restore some of the original art that adorn the inside of the lengthy exterior walls. I would love to head back for at least a couple of extra days! A couple of people burning incense. It's thought that the smoke from the incense carries the thoughts and wishes of the person burning the stick up to the heavens. Around the base of the gold stuppa are people sized scuptures of demons! I think their purpose is to protect the palace.