Khmer Avenue: Cambodia’s Architectural Wonder
Khmer Avenue, also called Street 184, in Phnom Penh is a beautiful street that showcases Cambodia’s rich architectural history. It was built in the 1960s and has shady trees, government buildings, and French colonial villas.
The Royal Palace of Cambodia: A Majesty to Behold
The Royal Palace of Cambodia, also called the Silver Pagoda, is a large complex in Phnom Penh that is worth visiting. It has beautiful Khmer architecture, with highlights like the throne hall and moonlight pavilion. There are hidden temples and shrines to discover as well. The Silver Pagoda itself has a floor made of 5,000 silver tiles and contains treasures like the Emerald Buddha made of crystalized gold Buddha. The pagoda spire is 70 meters high and offers great views of Phnom Penh and the Mekong River. It’s a great place to learn about Cambodia’s history. Visit early to avoid crowds and heat.
Silver Pagoda: Home to National Treasures
The Silver Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo, is located within the Royal Palace complex in Phnom Penh. Home to many national treasures, including solid gold and silver statues, it’s considered the most sacred temple in Cambodia.
You’ll first notice the stunning architecture when you enter the pagoda grounds. The pagoda is made of silver and concrete and was built in 1962. Surrounding it are manicured gardens and walkways.
Inside the main building, you’ll find a solid gold Maitreya Buddha statue decorated with 9,584 diamonds, the largest of which is 25 carats. This statue alone is worth an estimated $9.5 million. There are also rare silver-gilded statues of Buddha and murals depicting scenes from the Reamker, Cambodia’s version of the Indian Ramayana epic.
One of the most well-known items is the Emerald Buddha, which dates back to the 17th century. Carved from a single block of green jadeite, the Emerald Buddha is a potent symbol of Cambodia’s Buddhist faith.
No photography is allowed inside the Silver Pagoda, so fully appreciate the beauty surrounding you. The intricate details of the statues and murals are stunning. Even though the items are nationally and culturally significant, their spiritual meaning outweighs any monetary value.
Visiting the Silver Pagoda is a glimpse into the heart of Cambodia’s Buddhist faith and history. For Cambodians, this sacred site represents their enduring spiritual connection with the divine. As a visitor, seeing the pagoda’s treasures in person is a chance to understand what gives this country’s people a sense of identity, purpose, and inner peace.
Wat Preah Keo: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha
Wat Preah Keo, also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is a must-see when exploring Cambodia’s Khmer Avenue. This Buddhist temple dates back to the 15th century and is home to Cambodia’s most revered Buddha statue.
Upon entering the temple grounds, you’ll first notice the tall stone walls surrounding the complex, a common feature of Khmer temple architecture. In the center sits the main temple building, called the Vihear, housing the Emerald Buddha. This jade statue was carved in the 15th century and is considered a potent symbol of Cambodia.
To get there, head to Wat Preah Keo in the historic center of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital city. The temple is open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, and admission tickets can be purchased on-site for a small fee. As with any religious site, dress conservatively by covering your shoulders and knees.
Once inside, take your time exploring the ornate temple. Notice the intricate stone carvings, red tile rooftops, and gilded spires reaching up to the sky. The Emerald Buddha sits atop a gilded pedestal adorned with flowers and incense offered by devoted worshippers. You may see locals praying, meditating, or enjoying a picnic on the sprawling temple lawns.
A visit to Wat Preah Keo offers a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Cambodia. Although small, this temple complex has enduring significance as a place of worship, art, and history in the Khmer Buddhist tradition. Take your time soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred space in the middle of Phnom Penh’s urban jungle. A stop at Wat Preah Keo will stay with you long after leaving Cambodia behind.
National Museum of Cambodia: A Cultural Treasure Trove
The National Museum of Cambodia houses one of the world’s largest collections of Khmer art and artifacts, providing a glimpse into the kingdom’s rich history and culture. This cultural institution is a must-see on any visit to Phnom Penh.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by a statue of King Jayavarman VII, who built the museum’s foundation in the 12th century. The museum’s four galleries contain over 14,000 items from prehistory to the post-Angkorian era. Some of the highlights include:
- Stone carvings and lintels from ancient Angkorian temples intricately decorated with apsaras (heavenly dancing girls) and nagas (mythical serpents).
- An eight-armed Vishnu statue from the pre-Angkorian period. This sandstone sculpture is considered a masterpiece of Khmer art.
- Bronze ritual vessels and musical instruments were used in religious ceremonies and court life. The bronze gongs produce a deep, resonant sound when struck.
- Ceramics from different periods showcase the evolution of pottery styles. Some date back to the 4th century.
- Post-Angkorian Buddhist art, including paintings, manuscripts, and Buddha statues.
Visiting the National Museum is highly recommended to gain insight into Cambodia’s cultural heritage and a deeper understanding of the ancient Angkorian civilization. The museum is open every day of the week from 8 am to 5 pm. Admission fees are $10 for foreigners and 3,000 riels for locals. Guided tours are available if you want to learn about the artifacts in greater depth.
Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to leisurely explore the museum’s vast collection. This will give you enough time to appreciate the cultural and artistic mastery of Cambodia’s golden age. The National Museum is a treasure trove of history that should not be missed.