The National Museum of Art, also known as the Prince Chulachakra Art Hall, is situated next to the Phra Pin Klao Bridge. Designed in a Western architectural style by Carlo Allegri, an Italian architect at the Siamese court, the building draws inspiration from machinery factories in Birmingham, England. The main structure features a two-story, urn-shaped design topped with a tiled roof, flanked by long single-story wings that connect at right angles to form a square layout. The ridge of the roof and the door and window frames are adorned with beautifully intricate wooden carvings. The museum first opened its doors to the public on May 5, 1978. Previously, the National Museum of Art housed Thailand’s coin minting facility. Today, it serves as a center for the collection and exhibition of artworks representing both traditional Thai styles and contemporary international works by renowned Thai artists from both the past and present. The museum is divided into several exhibition halls, including one dedicated to traditional Thai art, showcasing unique and long-standing creative techniques. The primary themes relate to Buddhism, intertwined with stories from literature and the everyday lives of Thais in earlier times. Highlights include a "Phra Bot" (traditional Thai painting on fabric) from the Ayutthaya period, royal paintings by His Royal Highness Prince Narithorn Anuwat, and chronicle paintings accompanied by verses from the reign of King Chulalongkorn. Another hall displays Thai art in a Western style, featuring works by Western artists who served in Thailand and Thai artists who studied abroad. Notable exhibits include a portrait of King Chulalongkorn painted by a Western artist using printmaking techniques. The museum also has a section dedicated to honoring the royal family, showcasing paintings created by kings to allow the public to appreciate their artistic talents. This includes works by King Rama VII and King Bhumibol Adulyadej. A portion of the museum is dedicated to exhibitions of artworks from 1932 to the present, featuring works by prominent figures such as Professor Silpa Bhirasri and Fueang Haripithak. Ongoing rotating exhibitions are also available for visitors to enjoy. Location: 4 Chao Fa Road, Chana Songkhram, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Admission fees are 30 baht for Thai nationals and 200 baht for foreigners. For more information, please call 0 2281 2224 or 0 2282 8525.