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Ayutthaya Travel Guide :
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park
| The ancient city of Ayutthaya, the former Thai capital for nearly 417 years is a major tourist attraction. The city was founded by King U-Thong in 1350 and it reached its peak in the middle of the 18th century. It was a magnificent city with 3 palaces and over 400 temples on an island which was laced by canals. |
Ayutthaya was truly an amazing city which attracted both Europeans and Asians. After 33 kings from different dynasties, iin 1767, the city was conquered and destroyed by the Burmese after a 15-month long siege.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park deals with the history of the ancient city of Ayutthaya. What was once a proud and flourishing city now stands ruined. There are rows of Buddha images without heads and the temple grounds are breathtaking even though they are in a state of disrepair. Once you visit Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, you will be automatically drawn to these relics of history.
The architecture of the city is a blend of Khmer and early Sukhothai styles. You can see the Khmer influence from the cactus-shaped obelisks; while the Sukhothai influences can be seen from the pointed stupas that are still visible. Ayutthaya was truly a melting pot for Khmer and Sukhothai Buddhist influences.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park is around 86 kilometers north of Bangkok and once you visit the ancient city, you will definitely be overtaken by the grandeur of the island city which is surrounded by Maenam Chao Phraya, Maenam Pa Sak and Maenam Lopburi.
Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since December 1991.
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