Phimai national museum, National museum in Nai Mueang, Thailand.
The Phimai National Museum displays archaeological finds from excavations across northeastern Thailand, including stone sculptures, ancient tools, and carved inscriptions. The collection documents human settlement and artistic development across different historical periods in the region.
The museum was founded in 1964 as an open-air museum, marking the beginning of systematic preservation of archaeological finds in the region. In 1975, it became the regional institution under the National Museums Division, expanding its role in safeguarding the area's heritage.
The collection reflects artistic traditions from both Dvaravati and Khmer periods, with stone reliefs and bronze objects that show the region's cultural connections over time. Visitors can see how different peoples left their mark on the same land.
The museum is located near Kran Bridge and welcomes visitors on most days of the week. It is best to arrive earlier in the day to view the exhibits with better natural light and to avoid crowds.
One of the most notable sculptures is a statue of King Jayavarman VII, which stands at the center of the Khmer collection. This figure demonstrates the artistic skill of the Khmer period and its importance to the region.
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