Things to see and do Ayutthaya

Next to Wat Ratchaburana, this restored temple is equally worthy of interest. A very important spiritual centre, its creation dates back to Boromaraja I (1370-1388). There was once a royal monastery. In 1956, many gold cult objects were discovered in its foundations. There are still some prang and chedi, including one with a statue of Buddha leaning against it, and many amputated Buddha statues, walls and some columns. The great curiosity of the place is a Buddha's head embedded in the roots of a banyan tree.

The Phra Ratchawang Boran, also called Wang Luang, is the center of power, and as such is called the royal palace. The kings sometimes resided there, as well as the family of the dynasty. Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya was the capital of the kingdom during 417 years. Boran Palace is located opposite Wat Kasatra on the eastern bank of the ancient Lopburi River, whose bed in the 19th century became the Chao Phraya River.

Three palaces were built in the city, the two others are designated as the Chankasem Palace or Front Palace and the Wang Lang or Back Palace. The Grand Palace is now called the Old Palace. Alleys have been laid out around the remains of this palace which extends to the north of the island. The oldest part dates from King Trailok (1448-1488). Over the centuries, other parts were added. At present, only the foundations of the chedis remain.

The main buildings still standing are

Suriyat Amarin Hall from where one watched the procession of the royal boats on the Lopburi River, it is close to the enclosure of the city. It is very recognizable thanks to its bricks with quadruple gable.

Viharn Somdet. The place was used for the royal ceremonies, in particular with that of the coronation. Its roof was covered with gold leaves. It is surrounded by a cloister.

Sanpet Prasat. It was the rooms of receptions for the visitors of mark and especially for the foreign ambassadors. It is built on the same model as Viharn Somdet.

Banyong Rattanat. This building is located on an island in the middle of a basin and was used as place of rest and meditation.

Trimuk. This building which also has a majestic garden, is located behind the Sanphet Prasat. It seems to have served as a residence for the king's wives.

Chakkrawat Phaichayon. Located inside the enclosure of the city, in front of Wat Luang, it was used to observe the military maneuvers and the religious processions.

Phlapphla Chaturamuk, originally a wooden construction, which shelters today the Chankasem National Museum, rather poor in antiquities however. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 9am to 4pm.

Wang Lang (Back Palace), near the Western Wall, where the distillery is located. Originally, it was a garden reserved for the walks of the king. Later, apartments were set up there for the members of the royal family. The chedi of Queen Sri Suriyothai, who died in battle, can be seen here.

In the heart of the historic park, in the old town. Plan and documentation for most paying.

A little difficult to find in the meanders of the ruins but this temple is still a must in the city. He is famous for his reclining Buddha (Phra Noon), 37 metres long and 8 metres high. His head is placed on a lotus and his legs overlap to show the equalized toes. His body is often covered with a large saffron stole. It is a famous image that often illustrates articles about Ayutthaya. Behind him is a temple, and nearby Wat Worachettharam: their visits are available

One of the finest historical remains in the region. Its Khmer architecture evokes the temples of Angkor. It was built in 1630 as a tribute to the mother of the ^25th king of Ayutthaya. The main prang is over 35 metres high, with 4 more modest prangs arranged around it at the four cardinal corners. A gallery of 120 Buddha statues completes the decor. The walls of the enclosures also feature reliefs depicting the life of Buddha. When night falls, the temple is illuminated to great effect...