Ayutthaya

Ayutthaya is best known as the ancient capital of Thailand. As such, there remains a large number of ancient temples, which, although today they are in ruins, they are great national treasure and an interesting tourist attraction.

The town is located in the central plains of Thailand and in the past, 33 kings have had their seat here. Ayutthaya retained its status as capital of Siam for about 400 years - from 1350 to the mid-18th century. At this time, the main area was a large shopping centre, where traders from the Middle and Far East and throughout Europe, came to sell their wares.

In 1767 it was raised to the ground as a result of the Burmese invasion and since then Bangkok has been declared the capital.

A lot of looting of sacred figures, statues and objects fundamental to Buddhism, took place. Nowadays around the island is being built a canal that will connect the three rivers that flow into each other.

Ayutthaya, today is nothing less than dozens of scattered temples, dating from different eras. The largest is Wat Phra si Sanphet which was built in the 14th century and once served as a palace and around it were built three large stupas. Next to it is another important religious building, Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit, which holds one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand.

Figures of Buddha, dressed in yellow clothes, can be seen everywhere and in almost all the temples. Wat Na Phra Meru houses an image of budda the statue, which is nearly 18m high and covered in gold leaf and originally came from Sri Lanka.

The best way to get around all the interesting historical sites is to rent a bicycle, although most sacred places are more easily passable on foot. Tourists should note that the pictures taken with a statue of Buddha is not tolerated by the locals.