The Monarchy of Thailand (also referred to as the King of Thailand or historically as King of Siam) (Thai: พระมหากษัตริย์ไทย) refers to the constitutional monarchy and monarch of the Kingdom of Thailand (formerly Siam). The King of Thailand is the head of state and head of the ruling Royal House of Chakri. The king's power is limited to being a symbolic figurehead, but the institution commands the respect and reverence of the Thai people.
The current monarch of Thailand is Bhumibol Adulyadej. The king has reigned since 9 June 1946, making him the world's longest reigning current monarch and the world’s longest serving head of state. Most of the king's powers are exercised by his elected government in accordance with the current post-coup constitution. The king still retains many powers such as: being head of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, the prerogative of royal assent and the power of pardon. He is also the defender of the Buddhist faith in Thailand.
The Thai monarchy has been in continuous existence since the founding of the Kingdom of Sukhothai in 1238. The institution was transformed into a constitutional form in 1932 after a coup revolution, which was intended to end the system of absolute monarchy. The monarchy's official residence is the Grand Palace in Bangkok, Thailand. However the present king spends most of his time at Chitralada Palace (also in Bangkok) and the Klai Kangwon Villa in the beach resort city of Hua Hin.
Read more about Monarchy Of Thailand: Origin, Kings of Ayutthaya, Royal Regalia, Royal Ceremonies, Royal Orders and Decorations, See Also, Bibliography
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