HISTORY
Before Bangkok became the capital of Thailand in 1782 and the center of Thai government, many city-states formed loosely organized principalities. In order to unify the Thai states into a unitary nation, government officials and the Thai people invited Phra Buddha Yodea Chulaloke to become the first king of the Chakri period and became known as King Rama I.
At this time, Ayuthia was virtualy completely destroyed by constant attacks from Burmese. The Palace was then located in Thonburi and stood in a bend of the Chao Phraya river and was threatened by erosion. This building was also in between two monistaries. From there, King Rama I moved the palace to a more strategic site across the river where it stands today.
King Chulaloke ordered people to building a moat at certain measures. Today, the moat is called Klong Bang Lamphu and Klong Ong Ang, leaving the river at the north of the city and rejoining at the south. Strong and solid walls were then constructed along the inner side of the moat, which were then broken by sixteen gates and sixteen forts. Two out of the sixteen forts remain as historical monuments, along with 200 meters of the wall. This is called Fort Mahakan and Fort Phrasumen.
A big part of being king is promoting Buddhism along with encouraging the other religions of his people. This is why there are renovations of the old temples and building new ones have became the characteristic tradition of the Kingdom and her society up to the present day.
The history of Bangkok is depicted in her all important palaces, temples, building, and monuments.