Phra Ratchawang Boran

Phra Ratchawang Boran is an Ayutthaya-era palace complex whose remains occupy a large site in the Pratu Chai district. The ruin consists of stone bases, brick walls and foundations that trace the ground plan of former halls and pavilions.

The palace was built during the foundation of Ayutthaya in the 14th century and served continuously as the royal seat until the capital fell in 1767. The Burmese conquest led to the complete abandonment of the compound, which has remained a ruin ever since.

The palace name refers to its role as an old royal residence, with present-day visitors seeing mainly walls and foundations that hint at former grandeur. Low stone bases trace the outline of earlier halls and pavilions, while some brick walls still stand upright.

The compound lies within the historical park and is best explored on foot or by bicycle, with narrow paths running between the wall remnants. On hot days only scattered trees provide shade, so arriving early in the morning or late afternoon is advisable.

Within the compound once stood Suriyat Amarin Hall with its quadruple brick gables, whose terrace allowed kings to watch boat processions on the river. This orientation toward the water reveals how closely courtly life was tied to the watercourse.