Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, or Ayutthaya is an ancient city, founded by “King U-Thong, or Ramathibodi I” in 1350. It was the capital city of Thailand for 417 years during the reign of 33 Kings covering five dynasties, (excluding Khun Worawongsa).

Ayuthaya is about 85 km north of Bangkok. It was the capital of Siam from 1350 till 1767, and one of the most magnificent cities in the world at that time. It was taken by the Burmese and totally sacked, after which the capital moved to Bangkok. At its peak (about 1700) it had one million inhabitants. The reminiscence of its glorious past is characterized even now by the dilapidated prang (reliquary towers) and gigantic monasteries that exists till date. The historic town of Ayutthaya and associated historic towns are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Most of Ayutthaya’s attractions and tourism sites are ancient ruins such the several fortresses scattered around the ancient capital city, temples and palaces. The three palaces comprise of the Luang Palace, the Chankasem Palace (or Front Palace) and the Wang Lang (Rear Palace). In addition, there are palaces and the royal residence outside Ayutthaya, such as the Bang Pa-In Palace and the Luang royal residence located in Nakorn Luang district.

The ancient city walls forts and surrounding fortresses as listed in the Royal Chronicles comprise of the Mahachai Fortress, Petch Fortress, Horajchapruek Fortress, Chidkop Fortress and Hojampapol Fortress. Large fortresses situated at the river intersection include Petch Fortress and Mahachai Fortress.

The Charnkasem Throne Hall is located on the bank of the Pa Sak River and was built during the reign of during the reign of King Maha Thammaraja, the 17th Ayutthaya monarch, as his son, King Naresuan the Great’s residence. It accommodated many princes and kings, but was completely destroyed by the fire when the Burmese seized Ayutthaya. Many years passed before it was eventually renovated during King Rama IV reign according to the original design, and later became “Ayutthaya Museum”. Today it is known as the Charnkasem National Museum. Paniad Throne Hall which provides a good view of the elephant round up is located in Tambon (sub-district) Suan Prick, Ayutthaya district. It is surrounded by full-length logs with wing-gates on both sides, bordered by earth and brick knee-height wall and renovated in 1957.

Ayutthaya National Museum is a newly-constructed museum located at Tambon (sub-district) Pratuchai at the end of Khoon Muang in the center of Ayutthaya. The museum has an extensive collection of interesting ancient Ayutthaya artifacts and is open from 9:00 – 16:00 hours to visitors daily, except Monday, Tuesday and public holidays.