English: The Ayutthaya Historical Park is located on the main island in PhraNakorn Si Ayutthaya district. An area of approximately 1,810 rais is surrounded by three major rivers: Lopburi River, Pa Sak River, and Chao Phraya River. In 1991, UNESCO declared the place a world cultural heritage site. There are 95 significant ancient sites found in the Ayutthaya Historical Park, including:
The ancient palace: Originally located at WatPhra Si Sanphet, this place was a royal residence. Afterwards, King Trailokanat relocated the palace to the north of the Lopburi River in 1448. The palace is divided in 3 sections; outer, middle and inner section.
Wat Phra Si Sanphet: The temple was an area for religion-related activities to carry out the city’s major ceremonies. There are 3 bell-shaped chedis, which contain bone ash of King Trailokanat, King Borom Rachathirat II and King Borom Rachathirat II in each chedi.
Wat Rachaburana: This monastery was built by King Borom Rachathirat II (Chao Sam Praya). In 1956, the Department of Fine Arts initiated the restoration, and discovered vast amounts of treasure, including goldware, Presently, these items are kept at the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum which is open to the public.
Wat Mahathat: This temple was built before the Ayutthaya era and was reconstructed in the reign of King Borom Rachathirat I, but was completed in the reign of King Ramesuan. Housing Buddha’s relics, the temple was the most important centre of Buddhism in the Ayutthaya Kingdom. In addition, the place was a residence of some supreme patriarchs.
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Work created under contract with the Department of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Published with author's permission
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Mr.Peerapong Prasutr
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