Heading 2: The Lanna Traditional House Museum
The Lanna Traditional House Museum is a cultural gem located on Huay Kaew Road, along the Irrigation Canal Road, near the Ton Payom market intersection in Chiang Mai, thailand. As part of the Center for the Promotion of Arts and Culture at Chiang Mai University, this museum showcases the rich heritage of traditional Lanna houses.
Heading 3: History and Collection
The museum’s collection consists of eight traditional Lanna houses, which were acquired through donations and purchases. Each house represents a different style and period of Lanna architecture. One of the prominent houses in the collection is Heuan Tai-Lue (Mon Tood), a medium-sized wooden house with two compartments and a spacious veranda at the front. The East compartment serves as the sleeping area, while the West compartment functions as the kitchen. These compartments are connected by a gutter known as “Hong Lin.” The roof is made of shaked materials, which adds to the authenticity of the house.
Heading 3: Architectural Styles
Another notable house in the museum is Heuan Lung Que, which showcases the influence of Western architectural styles or colonial styles. Built in 1922, this house stands as a testament to the cultural fusion that occurred during that period. Heuan Kalae (Oui Paad) features a remarkable decorative lintel called “Hum Yon” above the door of the sleeping area. This lintel serves as an amulet, protecting the inhabitants from harm.
Heading 3: Lanna Folk Style
Heuan Oui Kaew is a Lanna folk style house that was built during World War II by the people living near the moated City of Chiang Mai. The layout and structure of the house were inherited from the traditional Lanna folk style, with slight adaptations in the partition, door, and window layouts. This house reflects the resilience and adaptability of the Lanna people during challenging times.
Heading 3: Elevated Houses and Unique Features
Heuan Kalae (Phaya Wong) is an elevated house with gable roofs. Its distinctive feature is the “Kalae,” two pieces of wood carving extending from the top of the gables, which symbolize good luck. Heuan Chiang Mai Townsfolk (Phaya Pong Lang Ka) is a medium-sized wooden house with two compartments, each with its own roof and gables overlapping the other. This architectural design is a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of the Lanna people.
Heading 3: Rice Granary and Handicraft Demonstrations
Heuan Pan Ya (Anusarn Sunthorn) is a two-storey, large-sized rice granary. Its roof is covered with earthenware called “Din Koh,” perfectly overlapping in the Pan Ya style. This granary represents the importance of rice in the Lanna culture and its significance as a staple food.
Aside from showcasing traditional Lanna houses, the Lanna Traditional House Museum also offers demonstrations of beautiful local handicrafts. Visitors can witness the processes of dyeing fabric with natural dyes, back-strap hand-weaving, silversmithing, cloth perforation, and mulberry paper making. These demonstrations provide insights into the intricate craftsmanship and artistic traditions that have been passed down through generations.
Heading 2: Opening Hours and Contact Information
The Lanna Traditional House Museum is open from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. For more information and inquiries, visitors can contact the museum at 053 943 625.
In conclusion, the Lanna Traditional House Museum in Chiang Mai offers a captivating journey into the rich architectural heritage of the Lanna culture. With its diverse collection of traditional Lanna houses and demonstrations of local handicrafts, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the region’s history, craftsmanship, and artistic traditions. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone interested in immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Chiang Mai, a visit to the Lanna Traditional House Museum is a must.
Address And Location:
239 Huai Kaeo Road Suthep Mueang Chiang Mai Chiang Mai 50200