King Narai's Palace

Welcome to Lopburi, and to the magnificent ruins of Phra Narai Ratchaniwet, or King Narai's Palace. As you stand before the imposing brick walls of this expansive complex, you are preparing to step back into the seventeenth…

Passing through the main gateway, we immediately notice the distinctive design of the defensive walls. Look closely at the archways and the repetitive, pointed windows cut into the thick brickwork. …

As we move further into the grounds, we encounter the remnants of a large, circular brick structure lined with smooth plaster. This is the central water tank, an absolute marvel of seventeenth-century hydraulic engineering. …

Standing before us is a remarkably preserved row of twelve identical brick buildings, known as the Phra Khlang Supharat, or the Royal Storage Buildings. Notice how they are aligned with militaristic precision. …

We now approach the ruins of the royal elephant stables, a critical component of any Siamese royal palace. Though only the sturdy brick bases and partial walls remain, these structures once housed the king's most prized war…

We have now reached the heart of the palace's public space, the ruins of the Dusit Sawan Thanya Maha Prasat Hall. This was the grand audience hall, the most important diplomatic stage in all of Siam during King Narai's reign. …

Deep within the inner ward lie the serene, melancholic ruins of the Suthasawan Pavilion. This was the king's private residence, his sanctuary, and ultimately, his deathbed. …

As we conclude our exploration and walk back toward the entrance, take a final, sweeping look at the grounds of Phra Narai Ratchaniwet. For nearly two hundred years after King Narai's death, this magnificent complex lay…