Phra Chulachomklao Fort
Eastern Thailand Region
Phra Chulachomklao Fort, also known as Phra Chun Fort, is a hexagonal western-style artillery fortress located in Samut Prakan Province, Thailand. Constructed in 1884 under King Chulalongkorn (Rama V), it was designed to protect the kingdom from colonial powers such as England and France. The fort housed seven 153/32 mm Armstrong cannons, nicknamed 'crouching tiger cannons,' which were state-of-the-art weaponry at the time. King Rama V personally tested these cannons in 1893. The fort played a key role during the 1893 Franco-Siamese crisis, firing upon French warships in what is known as the Paknam Incident. Architecturally, the fort features seven artillery holes, personnel transport channels, an armor room, and a freshwater tank, all strategically positioned near the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. Today, it is managed by the Bangkok Naval Base and functions as an open-air museum with exhibitions and a statue of King Rama V erected in 1993 to honor his legacy. The site offers visitors insight into Thailand's military history and colonial-era defense strategies, making it a significant cultural and tourist attraction in the region.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during daylight hours to fully explore the open-air museum and artillery installations. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to gain deeper historical context. The fort is managed by the Bangkok Naval Base, so checking opening hours beforehand is advisable. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Comfortable walking shoes are suggested due to the extensive grounds and outdoor exhibits.
Interesting facts
- •The fort's main artillery pieces were called 'crouching tiger cannons' due to their design and power.
- •King Rama V personally fired the fort's cannons during testing in 1893.
- •The fort played a defensive role during the 1893 Franco-Siamese crisis, engaging French warships in the Paknam Incident.
- •The structure is hexagonal and features seven artillery holes strategically placed near the Chao Phraya River mouth.
- •A statue of King Rama V was erected at the fort in 1993 to commemorate his contributions.
- •The fort was designed by a Danish engineer, Luang Cholayut Yothin, reflecting Western military architectural influence.
History
Phra Chulachomklao Fort was constructed beginning in 1884 under King Rama V to modernize Thailand's coastal defenses against Western colonial powers.
Designed by Danish engineer Luang Cholayut Yothin, the fort replaced older, obsolete fortifications.
King Rama V personally financed part of its construction with 10,000 weighs of his own money.
The fort was completed around the middle of 1893 and equipped with seven Armstrong cannons, marking Thailand's first stern artillery installation.
It saw combat during the 1893 Franco-Siamese crisis when it fired upon French warships in the Paknam Incident.
Over the years, it transitioned from an active military installation to a historic site and museum under the Royal Thai Navy's supervision.
Place Guide
Royal Monument of King Chulalongkorn1993
A prominent statue erected in 1993 to honor King Rama V's vision and contributions to Thailand's defense and modernization.
Artillery Turret and Cannons1884-1893
The fort's main defensive feature, housing seven 153/32 mm Armstrong 'crouching tiger' cannons, which were cutting-edge artillery in the late 19th century.
Personnel Transport Channels and Armor Room1884-1893
Internal passages and armored sections designed for safe movement of soldiers and protection of munitions within the fort's hexagonal structure.
Observation Crosshair1884-1893
A strategic vantage point above the gun holes used to observe enemy movements and coordinate artillery fire.
Contact
Phone: 02 475 6260
