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Bangkok's Top Ten
There's lots to see and do in Bangkok, but here are some places that are "can't misses," and others, a bit less known, that you shouldn't miss …
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10. Mahachai Prison Corrections Museum
Mahachai Prison Museum
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Guard Tower
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If you’re in for something really different, try this, one of the most extraordinary museums we’ve ever seen.
Probably the most horrifying book we’ve read on Thai subjects is convicted drug felon Warren Fellows’ ‘Damage Done,’ the brutal story of his years behind Thai prison bars.
Fellows spent time in the now-closed Mahachai prison, where only guard towers and several cells remain.
Most of the prison was leveled to form the beautiful Rommani Nart Park.
At the eastern side of the park, you’ll find a small museum, consisting of two yellow buildings on either side of the old prison gate.
The northernmost building features impressive architectural elements, furniture, and office machines saved from destruction.
Immediately south, the next building houses torture instruments, exhibits depicting the beheading and machine gunning of prisoners, and other tools of the trade.
Curator Sommai Ninaram
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Execution at Mahachai
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If you’re fortunate, you’ll run into guide and former prison guard Khun Sommai Ninaram, who will tell you fascinating tales of the history of punishment, death, and Thai prison life as he describes the exhibits.
Sommai was friends with the executioner responsible for 55 executions by machine gun, and is enthusiastic about the museum. Do sign the guest book.
To get there: The museum is located on the eastern end of Rommani Nart Park on Thanon Maha Chai, opposite Thanon Luang. It’s a 5 minute walk north of the intersection of Thanon Charoen Krung and Thanon Maha Chai. Closest BTS is National Stadium, and if traffic is good, you’ll get to the museum in 10 minutes. The closest river ferry is Tha Sapan Phut pier, and the museum is a twelve-minute walk, following Chak Phet and Maha Chai roads. Walking around the bridge entrances is dicey, and you’ll have to run fast during breaks in traffic. Open M-F 8:30 am – 4 pm, admission free.
Note: The Mahachai Prison Museum is too tame for you? Then you’re ready for the Museum of the Department of Forensic Medicine, Siriraj Hospital.
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