Ayutthaya, Thailand, known as the Ayutthaya Historical Park, is a fascinating historical site that was once the second capital of the Siamese Kingdom after Sukhothai. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, located around 76 km north of Bangkok, is renowned for its majestic ruins that offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Thailand. Founded in 1351 by King U-Thong, Ayutthaya flourished for centuries as a center of politics, commerce, and diplomacy. The city was strategically positioned on an island surrounded by three rivers, which made it a hub for regional trade and a barrier against invaders. It remained the Thai capital until its destruction by the Burmese in 1767. Today, visitors can explore the extensive remains of temples, monasteries, and statues. Prominent sites include Wat Phra Si Sanphet, Wat Mahathat, famous for the Buddha head entwined within the roots of a banyan tree, and Wat Ratchaburana. The site reflects a mixture of architectural influences, including Khmer, as seen in the prang (reliquary towers) and classic Thai shapes.
