Chulachomklao Fort/ Paknam Fort

 military, fortification, star fort

The Naval History Park at Chulachomklao Fortress is situated at the mouth of Chao Phraya River, Tambon Laem Fa Pha. The fortress compound houses a magnificent standing monument of King Rama V, which is located in the front of the fortress.

Chulachomklao Fortress is a modern fort and has played an important role in protecting the sovereignty of Thailand during 1893 against unfriendly forces. During King Rama V's reign, there was a period during which England and France were hunting for colonies. All neighbouring countries around Thailand were colonised by England and France. The king commanded that the fortresses at the rivers mouth be renovated and re-equipped, and also hired a foreigner who was a naval specialist as a consultant for planning the development of the Thai navy.

The seven Armstrong guns only saw action that one time. However, they are still in good working order as they fired a seven gun salute to celebrate their 105th anniversary in 1998. The fort is now open to the public.

Below a statue of King Rama V there is an interesting museum about the short conflict with France. Also on show to the public is H.T.M.S. Maeklong, a warship commissioned from Japanese shipyards, pre-World War II. The ship was in service for 60 years, including duty as a royal ship for King Rama IX. There is a gun park showing the history of guns and also an interesting magrove forest walk.