Museums

King Prajadhipok Museum is one of those places that I had passed many times but never entered. The building looked interesting (it was designed by a foreigner and was meant to be a tailor’s store), but I felt that I would be less than interested by the subject matter especially when there are serious limitations on what can and cannot be discussed in Thailand regarding the monarchy. Despite these reservations, when I eventually visited in February of this year I found the museum very attractive and there was enough information provided for me to form my own opinion on this notable figure in Thailand.

The Thai Bank Museum (พิพิธภัณฑ์ธนาคารไทย) is located at the SCB Park Plaza on Ratchadapisek Road. Managed by Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) – the oldest bank in Thailand – the museum houses a collection of documents and materials that recount the evolution of Thailand's financial and banking system.

The ground floor includes a comfortable reception area, computer terminals, and a large exhibition space which was being used as an art gallery when we last visited (April 7, 2010). Most information boards and notices are written in Thai and English. The museum is attractively presented throughout and for anyone interested in money or banking this museum is worth at least a short visit.