Ayutthaya City Pillar Shrine is a historic and sacred site that has long stood as a spiritual symbol of Ayutthaya. According to historical chronicles, a city pillar was erected and buried at the time of the city’s founding during the reign of King Ramathibodi I (King Uthong) in 1350. Although the shrine seen today is a reconstruction, it stands on what is believed to be the original location. The current structure was built in 1982 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Rattanakosin Kingdom, honoring the historical continuity of the former capital.

Architecturally, the shrine is both elegant and dignified. The building is designed in a traditional Thai four-gabled (Chaturamuk) style, with projections on all four sides. Constructed of brick and plaster and painted white, it stands on a raised platform with staircases leading up from every direction, symbolizing protection and stability from all sides. The spire is crowned with a three-tiered auspicious finial (Lamphukhan), representing prosperity, sacred power, and good fortune according to traditional Thai beliefs.

At the heart of the shrine stands the City Pillar, carved from Chaiyaphruek wood, regarded as the most auspicious type of wood in Thai culture. The top of the pillar is intricately carved into a seven-tiered crystal lotus, symbolizing purity, growth, and spiritual advancement. The pillar extends from the lower level up to the upper floor and is enclosed in a glass case for preservation, while still allowing visitors to view and pay respect to it clearly.

In terms of belief, the City Pillar Shrine is considered the dwelling place of Phra Suea Mueang, Phra Song Mueang, and guardian deities who protect the city. Locals and visitors believe that worshipping here brings stability, success, and protection in life, career, and family, just like the city pillar that stands firmly and unshaken, warding off obstacles and misfortune.

The surroundings of the shrine are peaceful, shaded, and filled with a sense of spiritual reverence. Located near major historical landmarks such as Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit and Wat Phra Si Sanphet, the City Pillar Shrine serves as an ideal starting point for visitors seeking auspicious blessings before exploring the historic sites of Ayutthaya.

Private Car:

• Drive into the Ayutthaya city island via Rochana Road. At the roundabout in front of the Old City Hall, turn right onto Si Sanphet Road. The shrine is on your left near the intersection with Pa Thone Road.

Public Transport:

• From Ayutthaya Railway Station, take a local "Frog-nose" Tuk-Tuk and ask for the "City Pillar Shrine."

Walking:

• It is within walking distance from Wat Phra Ram or Wihan Phra Mongkhon Bophit.

Worship Ritual:

• Worship kits (flowers, incense, candles, 3-colored fabrics, and gold leaves) are available. Please light incense and candles in the designated outdoor area before entering to apply gold leaves to the replica pillar.

Preservation Note:

• Visitors are not allowed to apply gold leaves or tie fabrics directly onto the original pillar inside the glass case to protect the historic wood.

Recommended Time:

• Visit in the morning for cooler weather and great lighting for photography of the white pavilion against the blue sky.

Admission Fee

• Free entry (Open daily for worship)

Opening Hours

• Daily: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM (Exterior viewing may be available until evening when illuminated).