(13 - 19 December 2008: The Ayutthaya Historical Park, Ayutthaya )

Formally known as Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, the ancient city of Ayutthaya, was founded in 1350 by King U-Thong and remained the capital city of the Kingdom of Siam for 417 years, from 1350 to 1767.

During this time, 33 kings of various Siamese dynasties reigned in Ayutthaya, each contributing to the the Kingdom's many cultural treasures. However it was during the reign of His Majesty King Narai the Great that the Kingdom of Siam established international diplomatic and trade ties with many western countries such as France, Holland, Portugal and Spain.

During its heyday, international trade flourished with Dutch, Portuguese, French, English, Chinese and Japanese sea-faring traders sailing up the Chao Phraya River, the River Of Kings, to this ancient capital. Ayutthaya was one of Asia's most prosperous cities with a proliferation of magnificent temples, palaces and pavillions signifying its wealth and properity.

This impressive heritage has become the bedrock of Thai society and has shaped the Thai way of life as it exists today.

With a culture and civilisation so outstanding and timeless, Ayutthaya was designated a UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Site on 13 December 1991.

Each year, Ayutthaya celebrates its glorious past with displays of traditional culture and lifestyle, numerous forms of entertainment amid the ruins of this ancient city.

Contact information:

TAT Central Office - Region 6

Tel: +66 (0) 3524 6076-7

Fax: +66 (0) 3524 6078

E-mail: tatyutya@tat.or.th

Note: Event dates and programme details may be subject to change. To ensure you have the most updated information, please reconfirm details prior to travel. Link to the Tourism Authority of Thailand

Link to the Tourism Authority of Thailand

Credit :http://www.thailandgrandfestival.com/