Sanam Luang
This
huge public ground is in front of the Grand
Palace, also known as the Phra Mane Ground,
translated in English it means Royal Field. Special activities or ceremonies
such as the Royal Ploughing ceremony in May, King's Birthday in December and the
New Year Festival also take place here. The are is also popular for kite flying
competitions, especially during the months of March and April.
At the northern part of Sanam Luang, opposite the Royal Hotel is a small statue placed in small white pavilion. The Goddess of the Earth edifice was built during King Chulalongkom's reign (1868-1910) to provide public drinking water.
Located at the southeast corner of Sanam Luang a
graceful, temple-like structure houses Lak
Muang, a stone pillar placed there by King Rama I, the first monarch of the
present Chakri Dynasty, as the foundation stone for his new capital city of
Bangkok. All distances within Thailand are measured from this point. Lak Muang
is believed by many to have the power of granting wishes. Accordingly, it's a
preferred site for vendors of lottery tickets.
The Weekend Market of Bangkok used to be held here but was moved to Suan
Chatuchak on Phahonyothin Road.
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