ICONSIAM Unveils 'Sri Mahasamudra' Junk Ship Museum, a First in Thailand, on the Chao Phraya River to Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of Thonburi

ICONSIAM unveils Thailand's first floating museum, 'Sri Mahasamut Schooner', a symbol of prosperity that arrives with the river, to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the establishment of Thonburi Sri Mahasamut. The exhibition showcases the biography and achievements of King Taksin the Great, presented in a modern and immersive format, telling stories and creating exciting experiences for visitors as if they were traveling back in time to a real ship in the past. The opening ceremony of the floating museum 'Sri Mahasamut Schooner'

The ceremony was graced by the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Wissanu Krea-ngam as the presiding officer, along with executives of ICONSIAM, sponsors, and renowned actors Aum Atichart Chumnanont, James Jirayu Tangsrisuk, and Noon Woranuch Bhirombhakdi. The opening ceremony symbolized the embarkation of a new journey, held in front of the 'Sri Mahasamudra' replica junk, a floating museum, amidst the picturesque scenery of the Chao Phraya River at ICONSIAM's River Park.

The exhibition showcases the life and reign of King Taksin the Great, highlighting his efforts to restore the nation and establish Thonburi as a major trading port. The floating museum, "Sri Mahasamut Junkship," serves as a symbol of prosperity brought by the waterways, transporting visitors back to the Thonburi period and the golden age of 18th-century junk trade.

The exhibition commemorates the historical significance of a major trading port on the international trade route, providing Thai citizens and interested individuals with an opportunity to learn about a pivotal period in Thailand's history. The exhibition will be held from November 14, 2018, to January 13, 2019, at River Park Iconsiam on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Admission is free to the public.

The Majestic Floating Museum: A Journey Through Time Aboard the Sri Mahasamudra Junk

The awe-inspiring "Sri Mahasamudra Junk" floating museum, meticulously crafted after the traditional Chinese trading vessels known as "Ang Thao Chung" (meaning "red-headed junks") by the Teochew people, offers visitors an unparalleled journey into the past. Through interactive exhibits and cutting-edge technology, the museum transports visitors back in time, immersing them in the captivating world of the Sri Mahasamudra Junk.

Divided into three distinct zones, the museum unveils the fascinating history of the vessel, showcasing its various compartments and offering a glimpse into life aboard this majestic ship. The interactive exhibits, powered by state-of-the-art technology, create an immersive experience, transporting visitors to a bygone era where they can virtually step onto the deck and feel the spirit of the past come alive.

Zone 1: Captain's Quarters

This zone showcases the history and stories of maritime trade, the relocation of the capital, and the establishment of Thonburi. It also highlights Thonburi's role as a major trading port.

Zone 2: Crew Quarters

This zone depicts the atmosphere and lifestyle aboard the ship, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the crew.

Zone 3: Repository of Civilization

This zone features the biography of King Taksin the Great and his efforts to restore the nation after the fall of Ayutthaya.

Zone 1: Captain's Quarters

Zone 2: Crew Quarters

(Left) A simulation of sailors hoisting cargo using a winch, as they did in the past. (Right) Visitors to the exhibition can also dress up and role-play as people from different nations using a mirror (Kinect).

Zone 3: The Repository of Civilization

This zone showcases the life and reign of King Taksin the Great, highlighting his efforts to restore the nation, the timeline of wars to reunify the kingdom, the flourishing trade and diplomatic relations between Thonburi and China, the story of global trade routes, and "ships" as symbols of prosperity.

The exhibition offers immersive experiences for visitors, including trying their hand at pulling cargo winches like sailors of the past. Visitors can also dress up as people from different nations by using a Kinect mirror and take photos with the Repository of Civilization, which they can then share online.

In addition, the "Sri Mahasamudra" junk ship also has an observation deck on the top floor and a zone with shops and cafes for exhibition visitors.

To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the founding of Thonburi Sri Maha Samut in 2560 BE, ICONSIAM, in collaboration with The ICONSIAM Residence Corporation Limited, The ICONSIAM Superlux Residence Corporation Limited, and the Government Savings Bank, would like to participate in commemorating the great kindness of King Taksin the Great.

A live band provided musical entertainment throughout the event.

The "Sri Mahasamut" junk ship museum will serve as a floating tribute to the rich history and significance of Thonburi. It embodies ICONSIAM's mission to showcase the best of Thailand and the world, fostering national pride and preserving Thai heritage for future generations. This unique attraction aims to captivate international visitors, further enhancing their appreciation for Thailand's cultural treasures.

The "Sri Mahasamut" Junk: A Journey Through Thai History

The "Sri Mahasamut" junk offers the public and interested individuals a unique opportunity to delve into a pivotal period of Thai history. The exhibition, which runs from November 14, 2018, to January 13, 2019, is located at River Park Iconsiam on the banks of the Chao Phraya River. Admission is free to the public.