Historic City of Ayutthaya
Unesco World Heritage

Location on Map

Historic City of Ayutthaya: A Glimpse into Thailand's Glorious Past

The Historic City of Ayutthaya, located in the Ayutthaya Province of Thailand, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a captivating journey into the country's rich history. This ancient city, founded in 1350, served as the capital of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya until its destruction in 1767.

Ayutthaya was once a thriving metropolis and a major center of trade and diplomacy in Southeast Asia. Its strategic location along the Chao Phraya River made it a hub for international commerce, attracting merchants from China, India, Persia, and Europe. The city flourished under the rule of several Ayutthayan kings, who built magnificent temples, palaces, and statues, showcasing the grandeur of their empire.

However, Ayutthaya's prosperity came to an abrupt end in 1767 when it was invaded and razed to the ground by the Burmese army. The once-majestic city was reduced to ruins, and its inhabitants were either killed or taken as prisoners. The fall of Ayutthaya marked a significant turning point in Thai history, as the capital was relocated to present-day Bangkok.

Today, the Historic City of Ayutthaya stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural heritage of Thailand. The site covers an area of approximately 289 hectares and is divided into three zones: the inner city, the outer city, and the island city. Each zone contains numerous archaeological sites, including temples, monasteries, and royal palaces.

The inner city, surrounded by defensive walls and a moat, was the heart of Ayutthaya's political and religious power. Here, visitors can explore the iconic Wat Mahathat, known for its famous Buddha head entwined in the roots of a banyan tree. The nearby Wat Ratchaburana, with its towering prang (Khmer-style tower), offers panoramic views of the city.

The outer city, located outside the walls, was primarily a residential area. It features the impressive Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a temple renowned for its Khmer-influenced architecture and picturesque riverside setting. The temple's central prang and surrounding pagodas provide a glimpse into the city's former glory.

The island city, situated between the Chao Phraya River and the moat, was the commercial center of Ayutthaya. Here, visitors can explore the bustling markets, ancient ports, and remnants of the city's once-thriving river trade. The Ayutthaya Historical Study Center, located on the island, offers a comprehensive overview of the city's history through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Efforts have been made to preserve and restore the Historic City of Ayutthaya, ensuring its cultural significance endures for future generations. The site's inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1991 has helped raise awareness and attract visitors from around the world.

Visiting the Historic City of Ayutthaya is like stepping back in time, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the grandeur and mystique of ancient Thailand. Its rich history, architectural wonders, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike.

Hotels and places to stay

Check availability

Ayutthaya Kantary Hotel & Serviced Apartments

Address
Distance: 0,7 mi
168 Moo1, Rojana Road, Tambol Tanu, Aumphur U-Thai
13000 Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

---

Check availability

sala ayutthaya

Address
Distance: 0,5 mi
9/2 Moo 4, U-Thong Road, Pratu Chai
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 16:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

Ban U Thong Accommodations

Address
Distance: 0,6 mi
39/11 Moo 1 U Thong Road
Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 13:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

Silp-Pa Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya

Address
Distance: 0,9 mi
1/18 Moo 1 Rotjana Road
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

Athithara Homestay

Address
Distance: 0,9 mi
29 Moo. 6, Soi U Thong 21, T. Pratuchai
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

The Old Palace Resort

Address
Distance: 1,1 mi
1/35 Moo5
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

Luang Chumni Village

Address
Distance: 0,8 mi
2/4 Rotjana Road
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

Baan Kong Homestay

Address
Distance: 1,0 mi
9/5 Chakkapat Road
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

Q Zone Boutique

Address
Distance: 1,0 mi
65/1 T.Tawasukri A.Pranakhon
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Check availability

Phrakhun House

Address
Distance: 1,0 mi
17/18-19 Naresuan Road
13000 Ayutthaya
Thailand

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 13:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

---

Videos from the area

Kids'voyage - Trésors du globe - #15 La ville historique d'Ayutthaya, Thaïlande

Published: December 04, 2012
Length: 02:15 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Kids Voyage

Kids'Voyage présente une collection unique de reportages destinés aux enfants afin de leur faire découvrir les biens et sites inscrits sur la liste du patrimoine mondial de l'Unesco. Avec...

Wat Mahathat - Ayutthaya, Thailand

Published: October 26, 2010
Length: 27:59 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: TripAdvisorTRIPWOWa

http://tripwow.tripadvisor.com/tripwow/ta-00a0-625e-a73b?ytv2=1 - Created at TripWow by TravelPod Attractions (a TripAdvisor™ company) Wat Mahathat Ayutthaya Read more at: http://www.travelpo...

Bangkok to Ayuthaya Milha's photos around Ayutthaya, Thailand (consigne gare de bangkok)

Published: November 17, 2010
Length: 44:44 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: TripAdvisorTRIPWOWu

Preview of Milha's blog at TravelPod. Read the full blog here: http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog-entries/milha/1/1215394140/tpod.html This blog preview was made by TravelPod using the...

Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners.