Global Treasures: Ayutthaya

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1205

UPC: 879061008047

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Eighty kilometres north of Bangkok is Thailand's former capital city of Ayutthaya, a famous historical site that is both exotic and atmospheric.

For more than 400 years, Ayutthaya, Siam's glorious former capital city, was the residence of no less than 33 kings and five dynasties.

The royal temple of Wat Phra Sri Sanphet, which is dominated by three chedis, is one of the most famous ruins in Ayutthaya. Within the chedis, which are of typical Ceylonese bell-shaped design, are the ashes of three prominent Thai kings.

The ruins of Ayutthaya still provide an insight into its original size and ancient splendor. Indeed, it is a historic metropolis whose dimensions once even surpassed today's modern cities of both Paris and London.