Chiang Rai is the capital of the northernmost province in Thailand. The city was founded in 1268 by King Mengrai and for a short time was the capital of the Mengrai dynasty until the city of Chiang Mai was founded. It was later conquered by the Mon and only returned to Thailand in 1786. The city has a lack of sights of historical interest. Wat Rong Khun is a contemporary Buddhist temple near Chiang Rai designed by the artist Chalermchai Kositpipat. Construction has started in 1997 and is still ongoing.