National Museum, Bangkok
The National Museum of Thailand in Bangkok is the country's central treasury of art and archaeology, and some of the museum buildings are themselves works of art.
The building that houses the Bangkok museum, which is the largest in Southeast Asia, was part of the Grand Palace complex constructed when Bangkok became the capital of Siam in 1782.
Originally the palace of Rama I's brother and appointed successor, it was called the Wang Na (" Front Palace"). The system of princely successors was later abolished, and King Rama V converted the palace into a museum in 1884.
To see the entire collection, which is highly recommended, plan to spend a few hours. Start with the Thai History and Prehistoric Galleries in the first building.
If you're rushed, go straight to the Red House behind it, a traditional 18th-century Thai building that was originally the living quarters of Princess Sri Sudarak, sister of King Rama I. It's furnished in period style, with many pieces originally owned by the princess.
Another essential stop is the Buddhaisawan Chapel, built in 1787 to house the Phra Phut Sihing, one of Thailand's most revered Buddha images, brought here from its original home in Chiang Mai. The chapel is an exquisite example of Buddhist temple architecture.
From the chapel, work your way back through the main building of the royal palace to see the gold jewelry, some from the royal collections, and the Thai ceramics. The Old Transportation Room contains ivory carvings, elephant chairs, and royal palanquins. There are also rooms of royal emblems and insignia, stone carvings, wood carvings, costumes, textiles, musical instruments, and Buddhist religious artifacts.
Fine art and sculpture are found in the newer galleries at the rear of the museum compound. Gallery after gallery is filled with both Thai and pre-Thai sculpture (including some excellent Mon work) and Hindu and Buddhist images from the provinces. The Thai Buddhist art on display includes images in stone, bronze and terracotta as well as illustrated scripture books, manuscript cabinets and votive plaques.
The National Museum is just a short (15-min.) walk north of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
| Location: | Na Phra That Rd. (about 1km/ 2/3 mile north of the Grand Palace) |
| Phone: | 02224-1333 |
| Hours: | Wed-Sun 9am-4pm. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. |
| Tours: | Free English-language tours: Buddhism culture, Wed 9:30am; art, culture, religion, Thurs 9:30am; call the museum or check a newspaper for more details and current schedule. |
| Cost: | Admission 40B ($1) |
Source: Frommer's Thailand.
