Wat Phra Kaew is the Temple of the Emerald Buddha inside the Grand Palace. It is a royal temple whose architecture, murals and ritual role belong to Bangkok's foundation as the capital.
Rama I established Bangkok as the capital and built the royal temple as part of the Grand Palace complex. Unlike a monastery with resident monks, Wat Phra Kaew serves as the royal Buddhist temple and houses the Emerald Buddha.
The compound is known for its ornate buildings, guardian figures, murals and the Emerald Buddha, which is changed into seasonal robes in royal ceremonies. The temple remains an active ceremonial place, so follow Grand Palace rules about clothing, photography and access rather than treating it as a gallery.