Top 5 Places to Admire Sino-Portuguese Houses in Phuket
Aside from the turquoise water and the sparkling sea, another thing that is well-known in Phuket is the architecture. The island has plenty of unique Sino-Portuguese structures where travelers can take pictures and learn more about their history. If you have seen traditional Thai architecture, you will be surprised at how different everything is in Phuket, despite the fact that the province is part of Thailand. When we talk about Sino-Portuguese buildings, many people often instantly think of Old Town Phuket. Sure, it’s a fantastic place to take in the architecture. However, there are also quite a few other places that allow you to admire the beauty of the mashup of construction styles. Here are our top five picks:
Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion
Back in 1903, the Phra Pitak Chinpracha Mansion was built by Pra Pitak Chinpracha, who was the governor of the residence. He was a Chinese immigrant who became wealthy by making business in tin mining. As time went by, the residents of the mansion moved out. It was then transformed into a well-known cooking school and restaurant called Blue Elephant. This place has been redecorated in a luxurious design. When you go there, you will get to experience very unique Thai fine dining. It is also possible to rent the space out for events or parties. The mansion is located in Phuket Town. It is easy to commute there. If you do not have a car, simply take a taxi.
Luang Amnat Nararak Mansion
This is another old mansion that was built back in the past. Luang Amnat Nararak was the person who built this two-story mansion in 1911. He was also the founder of the famous Phuket Vegetarian Festival. Because of his legacy, his estate has been preserved. To this day, Narark’s descendants still reside there. Although they live inside the mansion, you can go take photos of it on the outside. They are more than happy to allow visitors to admire the beautiful structure of the mansion. It is prominently situated at the intersection on Dibuk and Satun Road.
Phra Aram Sakhonkhet Mansion
In the 19th century, Phra Aram Sakhonkhet lived in this mansion until he passed away. He was another person who became well-off by investing in tin mining. In fact, he was one of the most famous people in this industry. Nowadays, the place has turned into a reservation and ticketing office for Thai Airways in Phuket Town.
Phuket Thai Hua Museum
In the past, Phuket Thai Hua Museum used to be the oldest school for the Chinese language on the island. It was operated and managed by the Peranakan Chinese community. It was built in 1934 but was converted into a museum in 2001. Although the purpose of the building has changed, there are still many things that give a nod to Chinese culture. Phuket Thai Hua Museum is a gallery of the Chinese ancestry on the island. It also tells the history of how Phuket Town has grown to be successful and prosperous.
On On Hotel
In 1927, On On Hotel was the first hotel ever on the island. It was founded by a Chinese immigrant named Yoktiew Saepae. This place gained its fame because of the Hollywood movie starred by Leonardo DiCaprio called “The Beach.” In the present, the structure is no longer a hotel. The name of it has been changed to The Memory at On On Hotel. You can still go to visit as a part of the hotel was turned into a museum.
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