The ancient city of Ayutthaya,
formally designated Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was the Thai capital city
for 417 years ago, and is one of Thailand's major tourist attractions.
Ayutthaya province is relatively small at 2,557 sq.km. and is easily
accessible due to good road, rail and river connections and its
proximity to Bangkok, Stradding the Chao Phraya River, the nation's
principal waterway, the province is extremely important, as it was the
Siamese capital for four centuries. The city of Ayutthaya is 76 km.
north of Bangkok and boasts numerous magnificent ruins from its days
as the capital. Just to the south, in perfect condition, stands the
royal palace of Bang Pa-In set in splendid gardens. The province is
also noted for H.M. the Queen's Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre.
Many ancient ruins and art works can be seen in a city
that was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong when the Thais were forced
southwards by northern neighbours. During the period when Ayutthaya
was capital, 33 kings and several dynasties ruled the kingdom, until
the glittering city was sacked by the Burmese in 1767, ruined and
abandoned.
The extensive ruins and the historical records demonstrate that
Ayutthaya was one of Southeast Asia's most prosperous cities. In
recognition of its historical and cultural importance, Phra Nakhon Si
Ayutthaya Historical Park, the location of the ruins adjacent to
today's city, was declared a UNESCO'S World Heritage
site in 1991.
©2008 AyutthayaNews.com
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