Founded in 1350, Ayutthaya used to be the capital of Siam for more than 400 years. Strategically located at the cross road between China, India and the Malay archipelago, it was the trading capital of Asia, and dazzled European merchants who were praising Ayutthaya as the finest city they had ever seen.

After the Burmese invasions of 1767, Ayutthaya was almost completely destroyed, and today, only the temples made of stone sort of survived until this day. The glorious temples of what used to be the largest city in the world (1 million inhabitants in 1700) remain ruins well worth a visit.

The lit ruins of Wat Ratchuburana, Ayutthaya, Thailand

Marcella & Claire

Travel tips:

• Take a visual tour of Thailand!
• Check out this interactive map for the specific details to help you plan your trip and more articles and photos (zoom out) about the area!