AYUTTHAYA – Authorities at the Ayutthaya Historical Park are working to remove spray-painted graffiti discovered on the walls of the ancient Royal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The vandalism, which includes the tags “ATC” and “ST07,” was found on historic brickwork near Wat Thammikarat.

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Images of the defacement were first shared by the “Ayutthaya Revised” social media page, which called on the public to help safeguard the nation’s cultural heritage. Phanuwat Euasaman, director of the Ayutthaya Historical Park, stated that officials are cleaning the affected area and reminded that damaging historical monuments is a criminal offense under the Ancient Monuments Act.

“The law prohibits writing, littering, or climbing on these structures,” Phanuwat emphasized. Violators face penalties of up to one month imprisonment and fines of 10,000 baht.

Ancient Ayutthaya palace wall defaced with graffiti https://t.co/82C86nBcmp @TNAMCOT

— TNAMCOT English (@TNAMCOTEnglish) January 13, 2026

Local residents and vendors expressed dismay, worrying that such acts could harm Thailand’s tourism reputation. A souvenir vendor with four decades of experience near the site described the vandalism as highly inappropriate and suggested it was likely carried out by reckless youths rather than adults.

A technical student in the area reported having seen groups of young people gathering at the site previously, though no one has been identified as responsible.

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Park authorities have increased surveillance around the historic ruins to prevent further damage.

-Thailand News (TN)