Bangkok National Museum

  Bangkok has been very good to us for the three weeks we have been here so far. The weather has been in the nineties with no signs of rain. People have shown us nothing but friendliness. Perhaps the most interesting parts for us are the many different sights we encounter as we head towards a particular destination.

As we exited the water taxi and left the pier, we passed through what could best be described as an alleyway lined with vender stalls.

Everything from clothes...

...to trinkets can be found here.

We never know what we will come across along the street.

  We finally arrived at our destination...the National Museum ( or more formally known as the Museum at the Palace of the Front..."Wang Na"). Constructed in 1782, it used to be the residence of five Viceroys (or Deputy Kings). Following the death of Viceroy Wichaichan, the Palace of the Front was abandoned. In1887 the reigning King renovated the grounds and moved the Royal Museum here. It was finally converted into theNational Museum in 1926.

Like many other attractions in Bangkok, the National Museum comprises several buildings. This is the main entrance building which exhibits the history of Thailand.

There are a number of pagoda type buildings that served various ceremonial functions.

This red teakwood building was used by the Queen.

The Queen's audience hall.

...and her personal dinning area.

These fearsome figures guarded the entrance to the Buddha temple on the grounds.

Every temple we have encountered has been exquisitely decorated and furnished.