Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology

As the winner of the 2002 “Taiwan Architecture Prize” and 2003 “Far Eastern Architect Awards”, Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology (十三行博物館) is undoubtedly a superstar among attractions in Bali. Designed by architect Sun Te-Hung (孫德鴻), the concept of the buildings that make up the museum is based on ideas related to archaeological excavation and the fact that Taiwanese ancestors crossed the ocean and reached Taiwan by boat. When viewed from the right angle, the boat like appearance of the structure will be apparent. Importantly, it’s also the first archaeological museum in Northern Taiwan.

The most popular parts of the museum are the “Whale Dune Observation Platform” and the angular “Archaeology Octagon Tower”. The platform symbolizes the dune where the Shihsanhang aborigines used to live. Visitors can walk up the stairs outside the museum to enjoy the beautiful sunset and great scenery of Tamsui River. As for the octagonal tower, it represents the destruction of historical remains and the impossibility of ever restoring the past.

Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology will tell you stories about how the residents of Shihsanhang area lived in the prehistoric Iron Age, around 1800~500 years ago. Evidence shows that Shihsanhang people are the only example of prehistoric people with iron-smelting technology in Taiwan to date. Furthermore, taking a closer look at their cultural behavior explained in the exhibits, you may notice a relationship between the Shihsanhang people and the Ketagalan tribe of the plains aborigines in Taiwan.

Whether from the aspect of education, architecture, or sightseeing, Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology is an ideal destination in Bali with plenty for everyone to enjoy.

Notice:

Closed on the first Monday of every month (when a national holiday falls on a Monday, the Museum will be open as normal but will be closed the following day), Chinese New Year's Eve, Chinese New Year's Day, and Election days. Necessary closures will be announced by the museum.