I was excited to visit the Grand Palace, but the only thing I actually recognized was the Emerald Buddha. So, for the rest of the details, I just copied straight from the palace guidebook. As soon as you enter, there's a spot where the buildings are the most sparkling and give off an inexplicable sense of grandeur. It's truly accurate to say that everyone finds themselves walking toward it without even realizing it, and the guidebook calls this area the 'Upper Terrace.'
On the left is the Phra Siratana Chedi, a golden circular stupa housing Buddha's relics. Next to it is the Buddhist library built in the 'Mondop' architectural style, called Phra Mondop in Thai.Inside Phra Mondop, there's an exquisitely mother-of-pearl inlaid bookcase where Buddhist scriptures are well-preserved. It's said to be incredibly valuable, but it was under construction, so I couldn't see it.Unlike the other buildings, the roof has a very unique shape.Perhaps because it's a royal temple, the intricate detailing on the pillars and sculptures is on a whole different level of precision and neatness compared to other temples. The way the golden molds sparkle in the sunlight is truly a work of art, especially since it's something you don't really see back home in Korea.The golden chedis (stupas) are where the Buddha's relics are preserved, and you can see these sparkling golden structures all over from a distance. This, too, seems possible only because it's a royal temple.A relief of a mythical half-human, half-bird creature.
Since I wandered around aimlessly, my photos ended up being just as random. If I ever go back, I'll definitely hire a guide. I spent money and suffered through the heat, yet I had absolutely no idea about the beautiful architecture and decorations right in front of me. It was so frustrating that I even ended up secretly following an English-speaking guide just to listen in.
