Sanam Luang is a 119,000-square-meter field located in front of Wat Phra Kaew. It has served many purposes, most significantly as the site for royal cremation and ceremonies. The cremation ceremony of the beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej or King Rama IX took place here in 2017 which was attended by hundreds of thousands of Thai people who would like to pay respect to their beloved king. In addition to its formal purposes, Sanam Luang is also a vibrant public park. It has been inscribed as a National Ancient Monument of Thailand by the Fine Arts Department.