Key dates
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Around the 15th century | A small port and village on the Chao Phraya |
| 1767 | Ayutthaya falls to the Burmese; Taksin makes Thonburi his capital |
| 21 April 1782 | Rama I founds Rattanakosin on the east bank; the city pillar is raised |
| 1932 | Siamese revolution: end of absolute monarchy |
Flag, seal and slogan
- Flag: a green rectangle with the city seal in the centre.
- Seal: a circle showing Indra on Airavata, the white elephant, among clouds, with his thunderbolt (vajra); it is based on a painting by Prince Naris, and the words "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon" run across the top.
- Slogan (2012): an official line celebrating a capital "built by deities", with dazzling palaces and temples. It is not a historic motto.
- Full name: "Krung Thep Maha Nakhon Amon Rattanakosin…", the "City of Angels", often cited as the longest capital name (168 letters).
Where to see this history
- The city pillar (Lak Mueang), the 1782 founding point, on Rattanakosin Island.
- The Grand Palace, heart of the dynasty Rama I founded.
- The Democracy Monument, a memorial of 1932.
- To link it all in one morning, a guided walking tour is the simplest way; see also Bangkok's museums.
