Mekkhaya
Country: Myanmar
Region: Asia
Period: 14th c.CE
Location: 21°N, 96.066667°E
Description
Mekkhaya was an early capital of the Kingdom of Ava, founded in the 14th century CE in central Myanmar. Situated near the Irrawaddy River, it was a major political and cultural center during the kingdom’s formative years. The kingdom was known for its development of Burmesearchitecture, literature, and Buddhism, which influenced the region for centuries to come.
Modern Remains
While Mekkhaya no longer retains its former grandeur, visitors can explore its ruins. Notable sites include old temples, remnants of royal buildings, and religious structures that hint at the city’s former magnificence. The nearby Mekkhaya Pagoda and remnants of ancient walls are some of the few markers of the site’s long-lost importance, offering tourists a glimpse into the early history of Myanmar’s dynastic kingdoms.