Amarapura
Country: Myanmar
Region: Asia
Period: 1783-1821, 1842-1859
Location: 21.9°N, 96.05°E
Description
Amarapura was the royal capital of Burma (now Myanmar) under the Konbaung dynasty, established in 1783 by King Bodawpaya. Located near modern Mandalay, the city was built as a center of Buddhist learning and royal administration. It served intermittently as the capital until 1857, when the capital was moved to Mandalay by King Mindon.
Modern Remains
Today, remnants of Amarapura include monastic complexes, the ruins of the city wall, and the famous U Bein Bridge—the world’s longest teakwood bridge. The Mahagandayon Monastery, a major Buddhist educational center, continues to thrive. While much of the original city has faded, Amarapura remains a cultural and religious landmark near Mandalay.