Rating: 4.4/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Daily

Opening Hours: 09.00 AM - 04.00 PM

 

Siam Football Association Museum, Nakhon Pathom is an important historical site that presents the origins and development of football in Thailand in a structured and comprehensive way. The museum is directly connected to King Vajiravudh (King Rama VI), who played a crucial role in establishing football as a widely recognized sport in Siam.

 

The history of football in Thailand can be said to have gained widespread popularity during the reign of King Rama VI, when he founded the “Siam Football Association.” This marked the beginning of organized football in Thailand and later evolved into what is now known as the Football Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage. This initiative was not only about introducing a Western sport but also about cultivating a lasting sports culture within Thai society.

 

On November 20, 1915, following the passing of King Vajiravudh, King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) graciously accepted the Siam Football Association under royal patronage to continue fulfilling the original royal intentions. Later, on December 10, 1926, this royal support further strengthened the foundation of football in Thailand.

 

In 2002, the Thailand Football History Association organized the event “123 Years of the Royal Origin of Siam Football” at Vajiravudh College. The purpose was to raise awareness among Thai youth and the general public about the history of football in Thailand. The Crown Prince was invited to preside over the opening ceremony, and this event became the inspiration for establishing the Siam Football Association Museum.

 

The museum was created through the collaboration of members of the Thailand Football History Association, including academics, football enthusiasts, former national players, and the descendants of past footballers. Many of them contributed historical football-related items, allowing the museum to build a valuable collection that represents Thailand’s football heritage.

 

Due to the close connection between football and King Rama VI, the museum was established within the grounds of Sanam Chan Palace in Nakhon Pathom in 2002. It was officially opened in 2007, marking the 100th anniversary of the palace.

 

The exhibitions inside the museum are divided into three main sections. The first and second sections display photographs taken by King Rama VI himself and presented to football teams at Suankularb Wittayalai School. These photographs demonstrate his strong interest in football and his active role in promoting the sport in Thai society.

 

Historical evidence also shows that football quickly spread to other institutions in Bangkok, including Royal College (Vajiravudh College), Bangkok Christian College, and even groups of royal servants who regularly played football in honor of the King.

 

One of the key highlights of the museum is the display of football uniforms and the royal emblem granted by King Rama VI, known as the “Phra Maha Mongkut” emblem. This symbol became the official emblem of the Siam Football Association and later influenced the emblem of the Football Association of Thailand. Internationally, only two national teams use a royal symbol as their emblem: England and Thailand.

 

The museum also preserves written records from football players during the reign of King Rama VI, serving as important historical evidence of the early development of football in Thailand and reflecting the sport’s growing popularity at that time.

 

The third section focuses on modern football in Thailand, featuring footballs signed by legendary Thai national team players. These signed items represent an important chapter of contemporary football history and honor the contributions of outstanding athletes.

 

Another fascinating historical fact is that Thailand once had the opportunity to participate in the 1930 FIFA World Cup, as it was among the founding members of FIFA. Thailand had the right to compete alongside Japan and Batavia (present-day Indonesia). However, due to the political changes in 1932, Thailand ultimately did not take part in the tournament.

 

The atmosphere of the Siam Football Association Museum is simple yet rich in historical value. Visitors can experience the origins of football in Thailand and its development into the modern era in a meaningful and engaging way.

 

Getting There The museum is located inside Thap Kaew Pavilion within the Sanam Chan Palace complex in Nakhon Pathom. Visitors can reach the site by private car via Phetkasem Road or by train and bus to Nakhon Pathom, followed by local transport into the palace grounds.

 

Admission to the museum itself is free. However, visitors must pay the entrance fee to Sanam Chan Palace before accessing the museum, as it is located within the palace area.

 

 

A: It showcases the history of football in Thailand from the era of King Rama VI to the present day.

 

A: The museum itself is free, but visitors must pay the entrance fee to Sanam Chan Palace.

 

A: Visitors can see historical photographs, football uniforms, royal emblems, and football memorabilia.

 

A: It is ideal for football fans, history enthusiasts, students, and general travelers.

 

A: Travel to Sanam Chan Palace in Nakhon Pathom and access the museum within the palace grounds.