Images

The current king of Thailand is His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Rama X (r. 2016-present) who is the first king in 69 years after succeeding his father Rama IX (1927-2016 CE).

One of the many mythical creatures and gods that the Thai people believe guard temples in the Grand Place Complex, Bangkok, Thailand. Photo taken 2019 CE.

Wat Phra Kaew (the Temple of the Emerald Buddha) Bangkok, Thailand viewed from the outer court of the Grand Palace, just inside the Wisetchaisi Gate. Photo shows the white perimeter wall. Wat Phra Kaew was built in 1784 CE to house the figurine...

Temple of Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand. In Thai it is called Wat Phra Kaew and this photo shows a golden chedi (stupa) outside the temple. Photo taken 2019 CE.

The Temple of Emerald Buddha, Bangkok, Thailand. In Thai it is called Wat Phra Kaew and it was built in 1784 CE. Photo taken in 2019 CE.

Six pairs of giant demon guardians flank all entrances to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand. They are known as yaksha or in Thai are simply called yak (giant), and they are Buddhist gods that protect against evil spirits...

The Emerald Buddha adorned with three seasons' regalia. From left to right: Summer, Rainy, Winter. Image compiled 2020.

On the grounds of Wat Phra Kaew (Bangkok) and a one-minute walk from the Temple of the Emerald Buddha is a golden stupa called Phra Siratana Chedi, erected by King Rama IV in 1855 CE to house Buddha relics. It is a bell shape on a circular...

The Emerald Buddha adorned with three seasons regalia. From left to right: Summer, Rainy, Winter. The Emerald Buddha is located in Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok, Thailand and was built in 1784 CE.

Tomb of Persian poet Ferdowsi (l. c. 940-1020 CE) in Iran.