Ayutthaya Temples

Why the Ayutthaya Temples are special
These ruins were once proud members of the ancient city of Ayutthaya. It was one of the world's largest, richest, and most resplendent cities in the 17th century.

Ayutthaya Temples tips and insights
Must-see temples

• Wat Mahathat
  Photogenic because the exposed roots of a tree have a stranglehold on a sculpted Buddha's head. The site also features an interesting row of decapitated (by the Burmese) monkey statues.
  
• Wat Phra Si Sanphet
  Famous for its three soaring chedi (stupas).
• Wat Phu Khao Thong
  This large white temple seemingly sprouts out of a rice field landscape.

History in brief
Ayutthaya was founded in 1350 as the capital of the mighty Ayutthaya Kingdom and prospered for four centuries. This came to a sudden stop in 1767 when the invading Burmese army plundered and annihilated it.

More pointers

• Ayutthaya is a popular day trip out of Bangkok because it is only a little over an hour away by a high-speed road.
• The name is pronounced:eye-yah-tye-yuh
• Ayutthaya is a large island surrounded by three rivers and was once completely encircled by a lengthy defensive wall.
• Visit the Historical Study Center Museum. It helps make its collection interesting by using modern presentation techniques.

Location in Thailand