Ayutthaya Kingdom Ayutthaya was founded as the capital of Thailand in 1350 A.D. by King U Thong (or King Ramathibodi I, after coronation). It served as a capital for 417 years until 1767 A.D. when it was occupied by the Burmese. During this period, the Thai people were exposed to the concept of divine kingship which was derived from India. This concept had a lot of influence on the ruling practices of Thai kings. Brahmanic ritual ceremonies also played an important role, particularly at royal events. Upon coronation, for example, the Ayutthaya kings would