One should not leave Thailand without visiting its ancient capital, Ayutthaya. I’ve been to this historical site more than I can remember and stepping foot on its soil always gives me that feeling of curiosity and admiration.

 Wat Phra Si Sanphet

Just recently, we toured a guest around this place and as I looked closely at the bricks which composed the old temples, I wondered how ancient they really are. Well, it doesn’t matter anyway. The mere fact that I was standing on what used to be the ancient capital of Siam was enough to put me in awe.

 Wat Yai Chai Mongkol

It’s a strange feeling having walked above the ground where kings and royalties used to live, and I shuddered to think that this place was once a battleground when the Burmese army destroyed this once glorious city to ruins. It isn’t surprising to know then that this cluster of building remains which form the Ayutthaya Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

 The ruins of a chedi (also known as stupa), of Ceylonese influence,
a sharp-pointed pinnacle atop bell-shape

Here are some facts about Ayutthaya*:

1. Its full name is Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya.
2. The city was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and became capital of his kingdom.
3. A magnificent city with three palaces and over 400 magnificent temples on an island threaded by canals, Ayutthaya was truly an impressive city that attracted both Europeans and Asians.
4. In 1767 the city was destroyed by the Burmese army.
5. Today, there are but groups of crumbling ruins and rows of headless Buddhas where once an empire thrived.

*Sources: Tourism Thailand and Wikipedia