The Cambodia National Museum located in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia is the most famous museum of history, culture, and archaeology of Cambodia. Inside the museum includes artifacts exhibiting the world’s largest Khmer art collection although the historic center of the Khmer tends to be obscured by the Angkor complex and the related museums in Siem Reap. Cambodia’s National Museum contains a wealth of knowledge about the culture and history of the country, people of Cambodia through different periods. This is a place preserving the most detailed process of arduous fights for the independence of the nation, giving citizens new life, liberty, happiness, and developed conditions like today.
The Collection of Cambodia National Museum
Valuable artifacts which are regarded as prehistoric items and splendid historic stories passed down from many generations back are presented in the museum. Every country in the past has known war and sacrificed a lot of assets and people. Cambodia has experienced many losses under the domination of colonialists and brutal Khmer Rouge. Nowadays, for tourists visiting Cambodia; if you want to discover and learn more about the history and traditions of this country, the National Museum in Phnom Penh is the most suitable stopover.
Cambodian National Museum – History & Architecture
The History of Cambodia National Museum
The National Museum was built within the area of the capital Phnom Penh of Cambodia in the early 20th century. The museum was designed by Ecole des Arts and George Groslier Cambodgiens in 1917 following the traditional style of Khmer and was inaugurated by King Sisowath in 1920. This is where to store the archaeological artifacts, religious and oldest art of the Khmer from the 4th century to the 13th century. The construction process lasted 3 years under colonial domination.
The Architecture of Cambodia National Museum
The architecture of the Cambodia National Museum has a mixture of both French and Cambodian architecture. This is also a distinctive feature of the national museum compared to other famous architectural works in Cambodia. The magic combination creates a unique architectural masterpiece, leaving Cambodians and tourists a compelling attraction to visit. Exploring the museum, tourists can have a chance to admire a huge collection of valuable items, over 5000 artifacts preserved carefully from time to time. Constructed according to two architectural styles, the National Museum exudes majestic and sophisticated beauty. Immense spaces, as well as the suitable arrangement of antiques in each stage of history, help visitors easily understand the history of this country.
Although the museum was built in 1917, the whole system of the artifact exhibited in the museum has a huge age. There are many artifacts kept back from the 3rd century to the present. Cambodian people pay special attention to keeping the ancient artifacts; protect them like the way they fought for the protection of independence and freedom for their country. Therefore, when visiting the National Museum of Cambodia, in addition to sightseeing, visitors can also listen to history and understand more about the people here, about their feelings and trust in spiritual forces.
Cambodia Nationa Museum Opening Hours & Entrance Fee
The National Museum of Cambodia is situated between 178 Street and 13 Street, near the Royal Palace. The museum is open to visitors from 8 am to 5 pm weekdays with a $ 3 entrance ticket. This can be considered a destination offering the largest historical knowledge of Cambodia and a destination not to be missed as you have a trip to Phnom Penh.
With its breathtaking exhibits and architectural splendor, the National Museum offers a window into the soul of Cambodia’s heritage. Enhance your Cambodia tour with a visit to this cultural gem and uncover the beauty and resilience of this remarkable nation.
