As shown on this minor portal (pictured on the left) every aspect of the Royal Palace and Wat Phra Kaew are heavily adorned with intricate decorations. The picture on t he right shows some of the detail found throughout the complex.

The main portal to the Wat Phra Kaew is guarded by two 20 ft. (6 m.) tall yakas (demons). These statues were highly decorated and given a fierce countenance to discourage evil from entering the holy shrine of the Emerald Buddha.

The European influence can be seen when you compare the building of the Royal Palace (picture to the left) with those of Wat Phra Kaew (picture to the right). Though both are distinctly Thai, the walls of the Royal Palace show some external influence.