Emerald Buddha, Buddhist statue in Grand Palace, Thailand
The Emerald Buddha is a 66-centimeter figure carved from jasper that sits atop a multi-tiered golden pedestal. Despite its name, the statue is not made of emerald but shows a Buddha in classic meditation posture.
The figure came to light in 1434 when lightning struck a temple in Chiang Rai, revealing the carving hidden beneath stucco. It was later moved between different cities in Southeast Asia over several centuries before reaching its current home in Bangkok in 1784.
Three sets of golden robes dress the figure throughout the year to mark Thailand's three seasons. The Thai monarch performs these ceremonial changes personally, and the events remain important occasions in the royal calendar.
The temple opens daily as part of the Grand Palace and requires modest clothing and removal of shoes before entering. The halls can become crowded, so visiting early morning or late afternoon works better for a quieter experience.
Thai politicians traditionally declare their innocence before this figure, while monarchs take their royal oaths in its presence. The statue's name is misleading, as it is actually made of green jasper rather than the gemstone.
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