Exploring Wat Ounalom: A Timeless Temple in the Heart of Cambodia

Fig: Wat Ounalom

What is Wat Ounalom and Its Place in Cambodian History?

Wat Ounalom is an important temple in the capital city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It is considered to be the most ancient and important Buddhist temple in the country and has a significant place in Cambodian history. 

Visiting Choeung Ek Genocidal Center: Heart Touching Tour Forever

Fig-Choeung Ek Killing Field

Visiting Choeung Ek Killing Field, Cambodian Genocidal Center that Stotopped Your Heartbeat for a moment.

Visiting Choeung Ek Genocidal Center is a significant and somber experience, as it is one of the many sites associated with the Khmer Rouge regime's atrocities in Cambodia. Here's some information to help you understand and prepare for your visit:

WHERE IS ANGKOR WAT?

ANGKOR WAT

Angkor Wat is an architectural masterpiece and the largest religious monument in the world – covering an area four times the size of Vatican City. It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the first half of the 12th century, around the year 1110-1150, making Angkor Wat almost 900 years old.

The temple complex, built in the capital of the Khmer Empire, took approximately 30 years to build. It was originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu before becoming a Buddhist temple by the end of the 12th century.

Who is the owner of Angkor Wat?

Cambodia gained independence from France on 9 November 1953 and has controlled Angkor Wat since that time.

The city of Angkor, home to Angkor Wat, was the capital of the Khmer Empire and thrived between the 9th and 15th centuries.

The Royal Palace Garden of Cambodia

Throne Hall, Royal Palace, Phnom Penh

1886-1919

Cambodia's Royal Palace complex was begun by King Norodom I (ruled 1860-1904) in 1886, when the capital was moved to Phnom Penh. Most buildings were completed before World War I, with involvement by French administrators and Thai designers and architects. French influence can be seen in the formal gardens which enhance the palace, and there are some European-style buildings on the grounds.

The building shown in this photo is the Throne Hall, which was originally built in wood. The present structure dates from 1919. Imitating the face towers at Angkor, four faces overlook the complex from the main spire high above the roof, whose eaves are braced by flying celestials. The staircases, that lead up to the building's high wrap-around porch, are decorated by naga balustrades.

Silver Pagoda, Wat Preah Keo Morokat Royal Palace

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

1902

The official name of this temple, Wat Preah Keo Morokat, translates to "Temple of the Emerald Buddha." This refers to a statue inside, but it is not the same as the famous Emerald Buddha in Thailand.

The Cambodian temple is popularly known as the "Silver Pagoda" bacause of the thousands of silver tiles which cover the floor of its interior. The temple complex contains several buildings; its main hall is shown here. The Tripitaka Library next door holds an important early sculpture of Nandi ("Preah Ko," Shiva's Sacred Bull). The complex is surrounded by a gallery that is painted with scenes from the Ramayana.

Stupa of King Norodom I

1908

Royal Palace, Phnom Penh

King Norodom I of Cambodia lived from 1834-1904 and ruled from 1860-1904. He is revered in Cambodia, and admired abroad, for the exemplary diplomacy that saved his country, against overwhelming odds, from being swallowed up at that time by Vietnam and Thailand.