Phuket’s charm extends beyond its sun-kissed beaches and luxurious villas. Its iconic historical buildings also beautifully reflect the island’s rich history―from grand Sino-Portuguese mansions to quaint colonial shophouses, these structures tell tales of an interesting past.
Many of these structural gems have been restored to pave the way for unique boutique hotels, museums, and cultural landmarks, without destroying them. Visitors in Phuket can take a leisurely glimpse of its heritage in its architecture, culture, and overall charm.
Phuket Old Town: A Living Museum of History
The colorful Phuket Old Town is embedded with a trove of historical wonders. The streets are adorned with colorful facades, intricately carved wooden doors, and ornate window frames that remind its people of its past.
Dating back to the 16th century, Phuket’s earliest settlers were China and Portugal. Due to its rich tin resources, Phuket has easily become a trading hub. The Memory at On One Hotel, a Site of Memory in the town, is the first-ever hotel built in Phuket in 1927 by a tin baron to accommodate other traders visiting Phuket. This architectural masterpiece is just one of the standout structures that capture the spirit of Phuket’s heritage.
For weekend visitors, they can look out for the Walking Street, a shopping area in Phuket Old Town located on Thalang Song Road and opens every Sunday from 4 pm onwards. The market is a one-stop shop for souvenir shops, food stalls, student zones, and activity areas. Visitors are welcome to stroll and explore the area and be immersed in local cuisines, crafts, and performances.
Beyond Phuket Old Town
1. Peranakannitat Museum (Standard Chartered Bank Building)
The Peranakannitat Museum is a good place to learn about the ancestry and way of life of Peranakan People. It houses a century-old Standard Chartered Bank Building, the first foreign bank to operate in Thailand. Visitors can admire its beautifully preserved colonial exterior while gaining insights into the unique customs and lifestyle of Phuket’s Peranakan community.
Read here to explore more cultural attractions in Phuket.
2. Baan Chinpracha
Baan Chinpracha is a quintessential example of Sino-Portuguese architecture located on Thanon Krabi, in the Talat Nuea subdistrict and believed to be the first of its kind in Phuket.
Built during the reign of King Rama IV, this two-storey mansion highlights imported Italian tiles, wooden staircases and intricate golden Chinese inscriptions on its ornate front door and vibrantly colored glass windowpanes, while the open central courtyard features a small pond. The unique bits and pieces of Baan Chinpracha are sourced during trading times when Phuket served as a route for ships going to Penang, Malaysia, and Europe.
3. Thai Hua Museum
A short stroll from Baan Chinpracha, the Thai Hua Museum was built in 193 and stands as a testament to the Hokkien Chinese migrants. Housed in a two-storey Sino-Portuguese building, the museum’s lower floors feature exhibitions exploring these early settlers’ traditions, beliefs, and customs. Thai Hua Museum remains a beacon of cultural preservation, offering an enriching journey through time.
Expanding Phuket’s Architectural Scene
Phuket’s historical treasures extend beyond Old Town, offering unique experiences in other parts of the island.
1. Kathu Mining Museum
The Kathu Mining Museum in Kathu provides a fascinating glimpse into Phuket’s past, particularly in tin mining, which played a pivotal role in shaping Phuket’s history. The museum’s exhibits include replicas of mining tools, photographs, and artifacts that chronicle the industry’s impact on the local community and economy. It’s a space where history comes alive, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about the cultural impact of the mining industry in Phuket’s local scene.
2. Baan Ar-Jor
Baan Ar-Jor is more than just a historical home. Located in the serene Mai Khao area is a lovingly restored mansion that offers a romantic setting for events such as weddings, workshops, and banquets. Guests can indulge in their Michelin-recommended cuisine crafted from premium ingredients and surrounded by the charm of Phuket’s most picturesque heritage. Baan Ar-Jor combines history and finesse with its captivating ambiance.
Related Article: Phuket Fusion Cuisine: Dishes Influenced by the Past and Future
Preserving Phuket’s Cultural Heritage
Phuket’s architectural marvels are visual storytellers helping to preserve the island’s cultural identity. For travelers staying in luxury villa rentals in Phuket, the allure of these historical landmarks adds a layer of depth to their luxurious escape. Next time you visit, take a moment to embrace these cultural treasures and let the stories of the past enrich your island getaway.
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Featured Photo by Phuket Sail Tours
