Ayutthaya ruled as one of the most important empires of Southeast Asia for an unbroken period of 417 years. At the peak of its power, the city was home to more than a million people-more than the great capitals of Europe-with commercial relations and diplomatic ties stretching to the western powers, China and Japan.

Although Ayutthaya was ransacked and burned by the Burmese armies in 1767, much of the empire's former glory can still be seen in the ruins of the old town. In 1991, UNESCO declared Ayutthaya a World Heritage Site in recognition of the archeological importance of the magnificent ruins and temples, many of them now restored.

Ayutthaya's most famous and most outstanding temple and a symbol of the power and majesty of the Ayutthaya era.

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The atypical Siamese palace and pavilion that's seen on all the postcards. Bang Pa-in is an excellent introduction to classical Thai style.

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Outdating Ayutthaya itself, the Khmers probably built Wat Phananchoeng prior to the 14th century. It houses one of the most revered Buddha images.

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	Ancient Palace		Wat Phananchoeng
	Bang Pa-in Palace		Wat Phra Mahathat
	Chankasem Palace		Wat Phra Mongkhon Bophit
	Chao Sam Phraya National Museum		Wat Phra Si Sanphet
	Elephant Kraal		Wat Phukhao Thong
	Khun Phaen's House		Wat Ratburana
	Wat Chaiwatthanaram		Wat Suwandararam
	Wat Na Phramen		Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon

	Check our featured historical sites index across Thailand and discover great ideas for your next trip

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