National Museum Bangkok

Museum in Bangkok

National Museum Bangkok
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Masgatotkaca

The National Museum Bangkok showcases Thai art and history dating back to the Neolithic era. Established in 1874 by King Rama V, it was the first public venue to display the royal collection of King Rama IV alongside other objects of general interest. The museum is housed in the 18th-century Wang Na Palace, the former residence of the Prince Successor, and originally served to exhibit antiques and gifts given to King Rama V by his father.

Initially named the Bangkok Museum, it was inaugurated by King Rama VII in 1926. In 1934, the Department of Fine Arts transformed it into the National Museum Bangkok. Once a disorganized collection of relics, it has since evolved into a well-curated institution with exhibits arranged into three sections reflecting Thai history. All artifacts are accompanied by detailed English-language descriptions.

Key collections include:

  • The Thai History Gallery: Located at the front of the Sivamokhaphiman Hall, it covers Thai history from the Sukhothai period to the Rattanakosin era.
  • The Archaeological and Art History Collection: Showcasing items from the prehistoric period to the modern Kingdom, this section features ancient sculptures and artifacts.
  • The Decorative Arts and Ethnological Collection: Displaying Chinese weaponry, gold treasures, gemstones, masks, and other culturally significant items from across Southeast Asia.

Additional highlights include a funeral chariot hall, which houses carriages used in royal cremations, and excellent examples of traditional Thai architecture.

Tip: Free guided tours are available at 9:30 AM in multiple languages, including English, French (Wednesday and Thursday), Japanese (Wednesday), and German (Thursday).

The National Museum Bangkok appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bangkok!

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Visiting National Museum Bangkok

Address: National Museum, Soi Na Phra That, Phra Borom Maha Ratchawang, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok, Thailand

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