Phra Racha Wang Derm, Royal palace near Wat Arun, Thailand
Phra Racha Wang Derm is a former royal residence on the east bank of the Chao Phraya River within the grounds of Wat Arun. The compound features wooden pavilions with curved roofs and multi-level buildings arranged around several courtyards.
The compound was established after 1768 as the first residence of the new capital under King Taksin. The court later moved across the river where the Grand Palace was built.
The name refers to the period when Bangkok became the royal capital and this compound served as the official residence. Visitors can still see the connection to the nearby temple complex through shared ceremonial spaces used on formal occasions.
The compound is accessible daily between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM through the main entrance of Wat Arun. Guided tours are offered at the visitor center in several languages.
Several buildings in the compound now house administrative offices of the Royal Thai Navy and remain in active use. This military connection reaches back to the founding period when the river formed the main defense line of the city.
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