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Ayutthaya: Former Capital Of The Kingdom Of Siam.
Although recently inundated by severe flooding on October 14, 2011, since Ayutthaya has survived many floods and destruction of various types throughout history, hopefully this once beautiful place will continue to be visited once travel bans are lifted.
Ayutthaya was the second capital of ancient Siam believed to have been first developed by Prince U-Thong in 1350. By the 1700s this city was designated the world’s largest city with a population of around 1 million residents and in 1991 was included on the World Heritage Sites listings.
Chanthara Kasem National Museum is the site of the palatial residence built for King Rama IV in 1577. The museum contains items used by the King. The palace, destroyed during the 18th century Burmese invasion, was restored in 1936. A summer palace of Chinese architectural style, Bang Pa In, was erected as a gift for King Rama V. Visitors are required to observe the Chinese tradition of removing shoes upon entering the palace.
Thailand is land of palaces and monasteries, one of which is Wat Phra Si Sanphet. This temple was home to a gigantic statue of Buddha whose remains were carefully gathered by one of the kings and now displayed in Bangkok.