Page 40 - CEFR Infographics by RTNLC Miscellaneous

34

Chakri Memorial Day, commonly known as “Chakri Day,"

is the day we express gratitude to the Chakri dynasty’s
benevolence, as well as commemorate the founding of
Bangkok, and the beginning of Rattanakosin era.

On April 6 1782, King Phra Buddha Yodfa the Great (King

Rama I), the first king of the Chakri Dynasty ascended the
throne. He also moved the capital from Krung Thon Buri on
the west bank of the Chao Phraya River to the east.

The reasons behind the move are:

Krung Thon Buri, the previous capital, is situated at the
bend of the river and is subject to land erosion.
The wide bend enclosing the eastern side of the river

makes the new location more defensible.
The east bank of the river is suitable for seaborne trade and

commerce, as well as the expansion of the city.