From historical evidence, the Royal Barge Procession began around 700 years ago during the Sukhothai period. In those days, the barges were used as battleships. When the need for battle ceased, they were preserved for ceremonial purposes. The processions were arranged for river journeys made by His Majesty the King of Thailand for private functions or state ceremonies such as the Royal Kathin Ceremony, the Coronation Ceremony, the pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Lord Buddha’s footprint, the installation of the holy Buddha images from the provinces and the reception of envoys from foreign countries. The ancient royal tradition continued through the Ayudhaya, Thonburi, and Rattanakosin (more commonly referred to as Bangkok) Periods.