Chan Kasem National Museum is very important for two reasons. Apart from housing a National collection of exhibits it also is historically and architecturally important.
The Museum is a collection of buildings enclosed by a wall and was originally built in 1577 for King Naresuan when he was then Prince Naresuan ruling Phitsanulok as heir apparent. It was made of sandelwood as was the fashion then for royalty. When first constructed it was called Chan Palace, was ruined in 1767 and rebuilt in the reign of Rama 1V then also renamed, Chan Kasem.
The significant buildings to see are the Pisai Salayalak Throne Hall, The Pavilion, Phiman Rataya Throne and the administration building.
Many famous people have lived here. These include, King Naresuan, King Narai, King Sua, King Thai Sa, King Boromakot and subsequent Kings of the post 1767 period, including Rama1V.
