Ayutthaya Historical Studies Center

The Ayutthaya Historical Studies Center is a national research center dedicated to the study of the period of Thai history when Ayutthaya was the capital. The center aims to provide a quick and easy way for secondary school and university students and the general public to learn about the life, society, and culture of Ayutthaya. Subject areas covered at the center's exhibits are:
1. Ayutthaya as capital : displaying the prosperity of the Ayutthaya period.
2. Ayutthaya as an international port : covering Ayutthaya's international relations.
3. Ayutthaya as the center of administrative power : covering the relationship between the king and his subjects and royal ceremonies.
4. Everyday life of the common people : covering the way of life, beliefs, religious rituals, mural paintings and folk culture of common people.
5. Ayutthaya's relations with foreign powers.

Ayutthaya Historical Studies Center
The Ayutthaya Historical Studies Center is a national research center dedicated to the study of Ayutthaya, especially the period when Ayutthaya was the capital of Siam. It is also a museum of Ayutthaya history displaying models that were derived from research into Ayutthaya history. A database and library about Ayutthaya history are also housed here.

Wat Yai Chai Mongkol Temple
The chedi. or stupa, at Wat Yai Chai Mongkol Temple is the largest and tallest in Ayutthaya. It is a symbol of the city that can be seen from afar.

Considering its architectural design, experts believe the stupa was built even before Ayutthaya was founded. King Naresuan the Great had it restored and built some additions to commemorate his great victory in battle over the Burmese. He named it "Chai Mongkol" or "Auspicious Victory"