Wat Phnom

The golden steeple golden roofs of the Royal Palace sit glimmering on the riverbank at the confluence of three mythical South East Asian rivers, the Tonle Sap, the Tonle Bassac and of course the mighty Mekong.

The Royal palace was built in 1866 on a site selected by the Royal astrologers who duly noted the significance of its auspicious geography, fit for a King regarded as a direct descendant of the gods, who had been sent to earth to rule under the influence of heaven.

The palace is one of Phnom Penh’s most striking landmarks and remains to this day the home of Cambodia’s Royal Monarch.

The Royal Palace enclave contains several impressive architectural achievements, adorned with elaborate and ornate decoration. The majestic throne hall is still used for official celebrations such as coronations and audiences with foreign dignitaries and government officials. To the south of the Throne Hall there is the Royal Treasury and the Napoleon II Villa, whilst to the north stands the Silver Pagoda, which houses the sacred Emerald Buddha. The most visible structure from the front of the palace is the open aired Moonlight Pavilion, erected to stage the captivating performances of Khmer classical dance.