AYUTTHAYA
AYUTTHAYA
Set at the confluence of the Lopburi, Prasak and Chao Phraya Rivers, the beautiful city of Ayutthaya was the capital of what was then known as Siam from the 14th to 18th centuries. At its height, Ayutthaya was surrounded by a 12-kilometre-long wall which was five meters thick and six meters high and boasted 99 gates, brick and clay roads and canals to transport water into the city. This World Heritage Historical Site was one of the most important trading centers in the region, hosting guests from Portugal, France, Holland and England. In size and wealth, it rivaled most European capitals of the time. Portions of this grandiose past can be re-experienced through its ruins which are mostly gigantic Buddhist temples built in different styles during the long history. But for the relics and records from this period, the Burmese obliterated almost everything in 1767 -- even melting Buddha images down for their gold. Some outstanding temples worth seeing are Wat Chaiwattanaram, an excellent example of Khmer architecture in the Ayuthaya period; Wat Na Phra Meru, the only original surviving temple; and Wat Yai with big reclining Buddha.
Getting here: Located 86km north of Bangkok, it is a 1- 1 ½ hour drive or a 4 hour boat cruise to Ayutthaya.
