Thailand - Ayutthaya - Historical - Basics

Ayutthaya City or to give it its full name - Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya is one of Thailand's main historical sites. Serving as the Thai capital for over 400 years it was once glorified as one of the biggest cities in the world. The centre of civilization in south east Asia during the 17th century.

The Kingdom of Ayutthaya reached its height in terms of sovereignty, culture, military might, wealth and international commerce in the 16th century when the Kingdom's territory was extended far beyond the borders of present-day Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar (Burma). Ayutthaya was known to have diplomatic relations with Louis XIV of France and the rulers were courted by English, Chinese, Dutch, Japanese and Portuguese traders.

Visitor in Ayutthaya UNESCO World Heritage Site Visitors today can explore and appreciate Thai history in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, which is situated about 85 km north of Bangkok. Visitors to Ayutthaya can marvel at its grandeur reflected through numerous magnificent structures and ruins concentrated in and around the city island surrounded by Maenam Chao Phraya, Maenam Pa Sak and Maenam Lopburi.

More importantly today, UNESCO's World Heritage list includes The Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Historical Park, an extensive historical site in the heart of Ayutthaya city, Ayutthaya has been listed since December 1991.

Listen Now

Thai Language