Chao Sam Phraya National Museum

I used too many “wow” words when I was in there 😮 In late November, we visited the Chao Sam Phraya National Museum (พิพิธภัณฑสถานแห่งชาติ เจ้าสามพระยา) to learn about the history of the three royal temples we planned to visit in the afternoon. We saw an incredible collection of golden treasures that had once been stolen from the crypt at Wat Ratchaburana. Wat Ratchaburana was built in 1424 by King Borommarachathirat II in memory of his two elder brothers, who died in a duel over the throne. The temple’s crypt is famous for its extraordinary treasures—golden crowns, jewellery, ornaments, and exquisite Buddha images. These treasures were hidden deep underground for centuries until the crypt was looted in the 1950s, and many of the recovered artefacts are now preserved and displayed in the museum. Ayutthaya was once a highly civilised city—rich in gold, culture, and power. Visiting this museum made me feel a deep sense of pride and love for my country. Each king throughout the eras had strengths and weaknesses, as they were all human just like us. But without monarchs during the Ayutthaya period, the kingdom would likely have been nothing more than ordinary tribes without civilisation or prosperity. It was through the kings’ authority and prestige that trade and diplomacy with foreign nations became possible. A system of governance with a monarch as the final decision-maker kept the country peaceful and thriving, because it is natural for officials or some citizens to seek personal gain through corruption. Having a righteous king who worked for the land and its people helped balance power and prevent those with dishonest intentions from becoming too dominant. What has been true since ancient times remains a principle worth following—history always echoes itself.

The treasures exhibited in this place gave us a chance to glimpse the once-prosperous Ayutthaya kingdom before its fall after the invasion by the Burmese. The craftsmanship of those treasures will definitely give you a feeling of surprise due to their quaint designs. It's said that the treasures shown in the museum are parts of those that were well-kept deep in the ground/under the stupas of some historical parks, which were not ransacked by the invaders. It's said that almost 80% of the treasures were ransacked by the invaders. The ticket is not expensive. But currently, only the gold exhibition section can be visited; the other parts are closed for renovation, which might take years to complete. There was a cafe outside of the museum. Visited in year 2023.

Must visit. The exhibition focuses on gold&treasures during Ayutthaya period. Especially the ones discovered at Wat Ratchaburana. Recommend if you would like to see the craftmanship and some stories on its excavations. All is air-conditioned, recently renovated. The other part of meseum is under renovation, however this exhibition only is worth your ticket.