The ruins of Ayutthaya have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. One of the highlights of a visit to the city is Wat Phra Si Samphet, the largest of the temples in Ayutthaya with its row of tall chedis.
It was built in the 14th Century and served as the royal temple in the palace grounds.
Ayutthaya was a world recognised city and saw the reign of 33 different kings. It was an important trading port for international merchants and by 1700 it had a cosmopolitan population of over one million people.
The style of the chedi of Wat Phra Si Samphet has become the familiar Thai version of the Buddhist temple.
Most of the foreign visitors to Ayutthaya during its time as the capital of Siam were amazed by its grandeur and beauty, proclaiming it as the finest city in the world.
In the mid-eighteenth century, internal disputes and poor decision making saw Ayutthaya become vulnerable and an appealing target for its neighbours. After a one year war, the city of Ayutthaya fell to the Burmese in 1767. The city was burnt to the ground and the ruins of today are what remain.
The next capital of Thailand would become Bangkok.
Absolutely amazing John. You must be learning so much history on your travels. I certainly have learned a lot from your blogs. Always makes for interesting reading.
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