Rating: 4.6/5 (5 votes)

Open Days: Monday – Friday (Closed on Saturday – Sunday)

Opening Hours: 08:30 – 16:00 (Advance contact with the authority is recommended)

 

Ancient Artillery Museum (in front of the Ministry of Defence / Defence Hall) is a Bangkok attraction that truly fits the phrase “a short stop with real substance.” Many people pass by without realizing its significance, as it is not housed inside a quiet museum building but displayed outdoors along the front and sides of the Ministry of Defence, in the Sanam Chai area—the very heart of Bangkok’s Rattanakosin old town. If you are looking for a brief pause between visits to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Museum Siam, this is a place where you can quite literally “read history through real objects” without needing to spend an entire day.

 

The core of this museum is a collection of ancient cannons that have witnessed wars and major historical periods of Siam. The artillery pieces are arranged chronologically, from the late Ayutthaya period through Thonburi and into the Rattanakosin era. This makes the walk-through more than just an encounter with old weapons—it becomes a visual narrative of how the Thai state employed military power, authority, and technology in different eras. One of the most engaging aspects is comparing each cannon’s shape, craftsmanship, and inscriptions, while reflecting on the historical context in which it was once used.

 

Highlights frequently mentioned by visitors include famous cannons such as “Narai Sanghan” and “Phaya Tani,” as well as artillery pieces associated with foreign origins, particularly those from France. In total, around 40 cannons are on display. Despite being an open-air exhibition, the information provided is surprisingly rich and encourages visitors to pause and look closely. Photography enthusiasts will especially appreciate the setting, as the backdrop is the Ministry of Defence building itself—an elegant European-style structure from the reign of King Rama V—creating a strong sense of stepping back in time without heavy photo editing.

 

Another advantage of this open-air museum is its accessibility. You can come specifically for this site or simply stop by while passing through the area. For the most comfortable visit, it is best to come in the morning or early afternoon, as the old-town sun can be quite strong. Walking at a relaxed pace allows you to read the signage and absorb the details without rushing. Families visiting with children may find it especially rewarding to walk slowly and discuss the broader historical transitions of the country rather than focusing solely on photographs.

 

Getting There The easiest way is to set your map destination to “Ministry of Defence” or “Defence Hall” and walk along the sidewalks of Sanam Chai–Charoen Krung Road in the old town area. If using the MRT, get off at Sanam Chai Station and continue on foot or by a short taxi ride. For those driving, allow extra travel time, particularly on weekends and public holidays, as traffic around the Grand Palace area can be heavy. Always follow local signage and on-site regulations carefully.

 

To make the most of a half-day itinerary, you can plan a walkable route starting at the Bangkok City Pillar Shrine, then continue to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and finish at Museum Siam or the Tha Tien–Tha Maharaj area. This route offers a well-rounded experience of history, religious landmarks, architecture, and contemporary museums in a single, compact journey—without the need to travel long distances.

 

 

A: It is located at the front and sides of the Ministry of Defence (Defence Hall) on Sanam Chai Road, Phra Nakhon District, near the Grand Palace.

 

A: Yes, admission is completely free.

 

A: Monday to Friday, from 08:30 to 16:00. The museum is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Advance contact is recommended.

 

A: A relaxed walk and photo session usually takes about 20–45 minutes. If you wish to read all signage and compare historical periods in detail, allow up to 60 minutes.

 

A: Yes. Take the MRT to Sanam Chai Station, then walk or take a short taxi ride to the Ministry of Defence.