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.