The city Samut Prakan can be translated as meaning “sea wall” or more likely “ocean fortress”. Samut Prakan was actually built to act as the first line of defense against any invaders who may try to go up the Chao Phraya River towards Bangkok.
The best preserved of these fortresses is Phra Chulachomklao Fort at the river mouth in Samut Prakan. It was built by King Rama V in 1893. This is a statue commemorating the King. Below it there is an interesting museum though unfortunately it is not open very often.
The fort was completed just in time for a skirmish between Thai forces and two French warships. At that time, the colonial powers of France and England were flexing their muscles and Thailand was stuck between the two. The pilot ship was hit by the guns but the two French ships made it all the way up to Bangkok.
The fortress is armed with seven Armstrong guns which were very advanced for their time. They are nicknamed “crouching tiger” as they would stay in the pit to be loaded and aimed. Then, when it was time to fire, the guns were elevated up. The force of the explosion then pushed them back down into the pit. So, they were hardly seen by the enemy.
It doesn’t cost any money to visit this fortress. However, it is not that easy to get there. It is more known by Thai people than foreign tourists as you won’t find this place in any guidebooks. Visit our www.paknam.com website for detailed instructions and maps on how to find this place.
- Posted from my iPhone
better than KFC and McDonalds lol but the name...
Peter M
27/06/2010 at 4:25 am
Samut Prakan seems to have many interesting attractions. I have been twice to the Erawan Museum which I find very peaceful and relaxing, notwithstanding its location beside expressways. I look forward to visiting the fortress in the near future. Thanks for these updates Richard, much appreciated!