The Royal Palace of Cambodia is a complex of buildings that serves as the official royal residence of the King of Cambodia. Its full name in Khmer is the Preah Barom Reacheaveang Chaktomuk Serey Mongkol. The Cambodian monarchs have occupied it since it was built in the 1860s, with a period of absence when the country came into turmoil during and after the reign of the Khmer Rouge.
When the capital was moved to Phnom Penh. Most buildings were completed before World War I, with involvement by the French. administrators and Khmer designers and architects. The palace was constructed between 1866 and 1870 after King Norodom relocated the royal capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. It was built atop an old citadel called Banteay Keo. It faces approximately East and is situated at the Western bank of the cross division of the Tonle Sap River and the Mekong River called Chaktomuk.
Attractive places to see at the Royal Palace.
1. Silver Pagoda (Wat Preah Keo Morokat):
Also known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the Silver Pagoda is one of the most famous buildings in the palace complex. Once a simple wooden structure, the magnificent building you will visit dates from 1962. Its name comes from its floor which is covered with over 5,000 silver tiles (now mostly hidden by protective rugs and carpets). The pagoda houses an extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts, including a life-sized gold Buddha adorned with thousands of diamonds, the revered emerald Buddha statue, and various gifts from international heads of state.
2. Throne Hall (Preah Tineang Tevea Vinichhay):
The Throne Hall, with its gold tiled roof, remains a symbol of royal power and is still used for official ceremonies like coronations, royal weddings, and receiving important guests.
3. Moonlight Pavilion (Preah Thineang Chan Chhaya):
Visible from the square in front of the palace, this elegant open-air pavilion has a balcony overlooking the high yellow walls so that the royal family can watch parades and processions below. is a serene and picturesque spot within the palace complex. It was traditionally used for royal dances and performances and most recently, the Pavilion was used for a banquet at the 2004 coronation of King Norodom Sihamoni.
4. Napoleon III Pavilion:
This unique building made almost entirely from cast iron is rumored to have been sent to Cambodia's king in the 19th century as a gift from Napoleon III, the Emperor of France. In any case, the iron structure reflects a blend of Khmer and European architectural styles.
5. Gardens and Courtyards:
The Royal Palace features beautifully landscaped gardens and courtyards adorned with statues and lush tropical greenery. Stroll the French-style paths and enjoy the tranquillity of the complex. The walls surrounding the Silver Pagoda are covered with hundreds of meters of frescos.