Delineating Des

Built in 1666, King Narai's Palace was the home of Ayutthya ruler King Narai the Great. Lopburi, where the palace stands, was the second capital of the Ayutthya Kingdom. When the King died in 1688 both palace and capital were abandoned . It was closing time when friends and I arrived but staff allowed us a stroll on the outer grounds where most of the ruins are. Palace Gate 1 Royal Storage area near the outer gate ruins opposite the preceding photo MyWorld Tuesday is brought to you by Klaus, and the MyWorld Team members Wren, Sandy, Sylvia, Louis, Fishing Guy and Klaus

Lopburi is very old ; has been around for many hundreds of years. Traces of its past mingle with new buildings right in the middle of town. When we alighted from the train on our arrival, the first thing that met my eye from a very short distance is something that told me we were in for a weekend of historical charm. And I wasn't disappointed. This is our breakfast view: Friendly locals who noticed us circling the ruins and snapping through barbed wires told us to walk a few meters ahead and turn right to get a good shot. The place was open but we didn't venture in. It was mainly King Narai's palace we wanted to see, but couldn't as it was closed for the Songkran holidays. Our hotel stands opposite the palace, but all our curious selves could do was imagine what wonders lie behind the huge, ancient gate. Ah well, next time then. Coming back from the AIDS Temple , we hurriedly proceeded to the ruins of the french ambassador's mansion. We bask in the charm and charact...