Only about 100km northwest of Bangkok, Suphan Buri province has a lot for visitors to see and do, ranging from forests, waterfalls and an aquarium to major temples. However, the National Museum Suphan Buri is often overlooked by visitors, even by culture vultures - maybe because it is relatively new or because it is overshadowed by another outstanding local museum.
Established in 1995, this museum serves as a learning centre for archaeology, history, anthropology, local art and culture through displays of ancient art objects, models and audio-visual media.
Stepping into the introductory gallery on the first floor, visitors will see significant historical evidence concerning Suphan Buri. Among the displayed objects are various inscriptions that include the name of Suphan Buri city, including the model of Inscription Stone 1 from the time of King Ramkhamhaeng the Great, an inscription on gold plate from the Ayutthaya period found at Wat Song Khob in Chai Nat province. Visitors will learn about Suphan Buri as an ancient city and also see the influences from India, Persia and the Roman Empire upon it.
The second floor of the museum includes the galleries on Buddhist art, literature, folk songs, ban bang poon kilns and present-day Suphan Buri. A highlight is the Gallery of Buddhist Art showcasing archaeological and historical evidence found in Suphan Buri. On display are Buddhist images, votive tablets and small art objects.