2609AyutthayaSouthside1The Portuguese were the first group of Europeans who arrived in Ayutthaya. They madetheir friendly debut here during the reign of King Rama Thipbodi II, to be more exact in 1511,shortly after attacking Malacca, which later fell under their control. The site now known as thePortuguese Settlement is located on part of the largest Western communities in Ayutthaya, onthe plot where one of the churches built by the Portuguese once stood. The exhibition facilityat the Portuguese Settlement may not be as well maintained as those at the Japanese Villageand Baan Hollanda on the other side of the Chao Phraya but there is still a lot here thathistory buffs can learn about. Visitors are welcome seven days a week.