The Emerald Buddha , Are the palladia of Thailand. the reign of King Sam Fang Kaen of Lanna, a large stupa in Chiang Rai was struck by lightning and came crashing down. A buddha image, covered with varnish and gold lead, was found within the ruins. It was then placed in the vihara, or chapel of the temple. Subsequently, the protective plaster was knocked off to reveal a beautiful, emerald green crystal image. The image was to be taken to Chiang Mai, but elephants leading the procession headed for Lampang instead. This happened three times. Finally, King Sam Fang Kaen had the image taken to Wat Don Tao, in Lampang, King Tilokarat subsequently had the image removed to Chiang Mai. it was also taken to Luang Phrabang and Vientiane. during the reign of King Tak of Thonburi, Chaophraya is Chakri, during a military expedition to Viantiane, brought the Emerald Buddha back with him. After the chakri ascended the throne as Rama I he ordered the construction of Wat Phra Sri Ratana Sasadara and had the Emerald Buddha installed in the Phra Ubosot, or chapel. He gave the mage the name "Phra Buddha Maha Maneeratana Patimakorn