The
ancient city of Ayutthaya,or Phra Nakhon Si
Ayutthaya,The Thai capital for 417 years, is one of
Thailand's major tourist attractions.Many ancient ruins
and art works can be seen in a city that was founded in
1350 by King U -Thong when the Thais were forced
southwards by northern neighbours.During the period of
Ayutthaya being the Thai capital, 33 Kings of different
dynasties ruled the kingdom until it was sacked by the
Burmese in 1767.
Ayutthaya is 76 kilometres north of Bangkok and boasts numerous
magnificent ruins. Such ruins indicate that Ayutthaya was one of
Indo - China's most prosperous cities. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya a
Historical Park, a vast stretch of historical site in the heart of
Ayutthaya city, has been included in UNESCO's list of world heritage
since 13 December ,1991.
Ayutthaya covers 2,556 square kilometres, and is administratively
divided into 16 districts (Ampohes). It is conveniently accessible
due to good roads and a short distance from Bangkok.
