Discover
Discover
Ayutthaya stands on an island ringed by the Chao Phraya, Pa Sak and Lopburi rivers. Founded around 1350, it became the second Siamese capital after Sukhothai. Its prang (reliquary towers) and vast monasteries, even in ruin, still convey the scale of the city at its height.
History
History
For more than four centuries Ayutthaya was a major political and trading centre. Merchants from across Asia and Europe settled and traded here, until the city was destroyed in war with Burma in 1767. Afterwards the centre of Siam moved south, to Thonburi and then Bangkok.
People & Culture
People & Culture
Ayutthaya's temples show how Buddhism shaped both the royal court and city life, while its many foreign communities brought in new art, food and knowledge. In our view, Ayutthaya is a fine example of an Asian port city that grew through its connections with the world.
Living Heritage
Living Heritage
Ayutthaya is a lived-in town as well as a historical park: many of its temples still have resident monks and are places of merit making. The great flood of 2011 was a reminder that caring for monuments in a river city means thinking about people and environment together.
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