Phnom Penh, the capital city of Cambodia, is the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. Located at the confluence of the Mekong, Tonle Sap, and Bassac rivers, Phnom Penh is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and dynamic urban life. The city has undergone significant development in recent decades, transforming into a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional architecture.

According to www.countryaah.com, Phnom Penh was founded in 1372 and became the capital of Cambodia in 1434. The city is named after Wat Phnom, a temple built in 1373 that remains one of its most important landmarks. Over the centuries, Phnom Penh has played a central role in Cambodia’s history, serving as a hub for trade, politics, and culture.

History of Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh’s history is deeply intertwined with the Khmer Empire and the subsequent periods of Cambodian history. After the fall of Angkor, Phnom Penh emerged as an important city due to its strategic location along major trade routes. The city experienced significant growth during the French colonial period, when it was modernized and developed as the administrative center of French Indochina.

During the Cambodian Civil War and the Khmer Rouge regime, Phnom Penh experienced profound upheaval. The city was evacuated in 1975, and its population was forced into the countryside. The fall of the Khmer Rouge in 1979 marked the beginning of a period of reconstruction and recovery for Phnom Penh. Today, the city is a vibrant capital that reflects Cambodia’s resilience and cultural richness.

Modern Phnom Penh

Modern Phnom Penh is a thriving city with a diverse population and a growing economy. The city is home to a mix of traditional markets, modern shopping centers, luxury hotels, and historical sites. Phnom Penh’s economy is driven by sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, real estate, and services. The city is also an important educational and healthcare center, hosting several universities and hospitals.

Phnom Penh is known for its lively cultural scene, with numerous festivals, performances, and exhibitions taking place throughout the year. The city’s nightlife is vibrant, offering a range of entertainment options from upscale bars and restaurants to traditional dance performances and street food markets.

City Facts

• Area: Approximately 678.46 square kilometers (261.86 square miles)
• Population: Around 2.2 million (2023 estimate)
• Time Zone: Indochina Time (ICT), UTC +7
• Highest Point: Phnom Daun Penh, approximately 27 meters (89 feet)
• Longest River: Mekong River

Major Landmarks

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is a complex of buildings that serves as the royal residence of the King of Cambodia. Constructed in 1866, the palace is a prime example of Khmer architecture and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Phnom Penh. The complex includes the Throne Hall, the Silver Pagoda, and various other buildings and gardens.

Wat Phnom

Wat Phnom is a Buddhist temple built in 1373, and it stands as one of the most significant religious sites in Phnom Penh. The temple is situated on a small hill and is a central symbol of the city. According to legend, the temple was founded to house four Buddha statues discovered by a wealthy widow named Penh, after whom the city is named.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum

The Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a poignant reminder of Cambodia’s tragic history under the Khmer Rouge regime. Housed in a former high school that was converted into a prison known as S-21, the museum documents the atrocities committed during this period. It is an important site for education and remembrance.

Independence Monument

The Independence Monument was built in 1958 to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule. Designed in the form of a lotus-shaped stupa, the monument is located in the heart of Phnom Penh and is a focal point for national celebrations and events.

Central Market (Phsar Thmei)

The Central Market, also known as Phsar Thmei, is an iconic Art Deco building constructed in 1937. The market is a bustling hub where locals and tourists can find a wide range of goods, including jewelry, clothing, electronics, and souvenirs. The distinctive yellow dome and its bustling atmosphere make it a must-visit location.

Climate Overview

Phnom Penh experiences a tropical wet and dry climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season runs from May to October, bringing heavy rains and high humidity, while the dry season from November to April is marked by cooler temperatures and less precipitation.

Historical Capitals

Before Phnom Penh became the capital, Angkor served as the capital of the Khmer Empire during its peak from the 9th to the 15th century. Angkor was one of the largest and most advanced cities of its time, known for its grand temples and sophisticated water management systems.

Angkor Overview

Angkor, located in present-day Siem Reap province, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Southeast Asia. The city served as the capital of the Khmer Empire and was home to numerous magnificent temples, including Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Bayon.

• Area: The Angkor Archaeological Park covers approximately 400 square kilometers (154 square miles)
• Population: Estimated to have housed around 0.1 million people at its peak
• Time Zone: Indochina Time (ICT), UTC +7

Major Landmarks in Angkor

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, originally constructed in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu. It later transformed into a Buddhist temple. The temple is renowned for its grand scale, intricate carvings, and architectural sophistication.

Angkor Thom

Angkor Thom, meaning “Great City,” was the last capital of the Khmer Empire. The city is famous for the Bayon Temple, known for its massive stone faces and intricate bas-reliefs depicting historical events and everyday life during the Khmer Empire.

Ta Prohm

Ta Prohm is one of the most popular temples in the Angkor complex, known for the large trees and roots that have grown over the ruins. The temple has been left largely unrestored, giving it a unique and atmospheric appearance.

Banteay Srei

Banteay Srei is a 10th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. The temple is known for its elaborate carvings and pink sandstone construction, which give it a distinctive color and intricate detail.

Preah Khan

Preah Khan is a large temple complex built in the 12th century, originally functioning as a Buddhist monastery and school. The temple’s layout and carvings reflect the architectural and artistic achievements of the Khmer Empire.

Country Facts

• Population: Approximately 16.7 million (2023 estimate)
• Area: 181,035 square kilometers (69,898 square miles)
• Largest City: Phnom Penh
• Currency: Cambodian riel (KHR)
• Official Language: Khmer
• ISO Country Codes: KH, KHM
• Time Zone: ICT (UTC +7)
• Highest Point: Phnom Aural, 1,810 meters (5,938 feet)
• Longest River: Mekong River

Cambodia, located in Southeast Asia, is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and natural beauty. The country has a diverse landscape, including low-lying plains, the Mekong Delta, mountains, and a coastline along the Gulf of Thailand. Cambodia’s history is marked by the rise and fall of the Khmer Empire, colonization by France, and the tragic period of the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, Cambodia is a developing country with a growing economy, vibrant culture, and significant tourism industry.

Other Major Cities

Siem Reap

Siem Reap is a major city in northwestern Cambodia, best known as the gateway to the Angkor Archaeological Park. The city has experienced rapid growth in recent years, driven by the booming tourism industry. Siem Reap offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for travelers.

Battambang

Battambang is Cambodia’s second-largest city, located in the northwestern part of the country. The city is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and surrounding countryside, which is dotted with ancient temples and traditional villages. Battambang is an important agricultural center, producing rice, fruits, and other crops.

Sihanoukville

Sihanoukville is a coastal city in southwestern Cambodia, known for its beautiful beaches and rapidly developing tourism industry. The city has undergone significant transformation in recent years, with numerous hotels, casinos, and infrastructure projects. Sihanoukville is a gateway to the nearby islands and a popular destination for both local and international tourists.

Kampong Cham

Kampong Cham is a city located in eastern Cambodia along the banks of the Mekong River. It is known for its rich history, charming riverside setting, and cultural heritage. The city features French colonial buildings, traditional markets, and significant religious sites, such as the Wat Nokor Bachey temple.

Takeo

Takeo is a provincial capital in southern Cambodia, known for its historical significance and ancient temples. The city and surrounding region are home to several important archaeological sites, including the ancient cities of Angkor Borei and Phnom Da. Takeo is often referred to as the cradle of Cambodian civilization due to its long history and cultural heritage.

Historical Capitals

In addition to Phnom Penh, Cambodia has had several other historical capitals throughout its long history. Each of these cities played a crucial role during different periods of Cambodian history.

Angkor (9th to 15th Century)

As previously mentioned, Angkor served as the capital of the Khmer Empire during its peak. The city’s grand temples and sophisticated infrastructure made it one of the most advanced cities of its time. Angkor’s decline began in the 15th century, leading to the eventual relocation of the capital.

Oudong (1618-1866)

Oudong was the capital of Cambodia from 1618 to 1866. Located northwest of Phnom Penh, Oudong served as the royal residence and administrative center during several reigns. The city is known for its numerous stupas and temples, which reflect its historical importance. Oudong was eventually abandoned in favor of Phnom Penh due to its strategic location along the Mekong River.

Longvek (1528-1594)

Longvek became the capital after the fall of Angkor and served as the center of Cambodian power from 1528 to 1594. Situated north of Phnom Penh, Longvek was known for its fortifications and trade connections with foreign merchants. The city fell to Siamese invaders in 1594, leading to another shift in the capital.

Srei Santhor (15th Century)

Srei Santhor was an earlier capital during the 15th century, located near present-day Kampong Cham. The city was an important administrative center before the rise of Longvek and Oudong. Srei Santhor played a role in the transitional period between the decline of Angkor and the establishment of later capitals.

Major Landmarks in Historical Capitals

Oudong

Oudong is known for its historical and religious significance. The city is home to several important stupas, including the Preah Reach Damrei Sam Pov and the Preah Sakyamoni Chedai. These structures house relics of former kings and are pilgrimage sites for Cambodians.

Longvek

Longvek’s remnants include ancient city walls and fortifications. Although much of the city has been lost to time, it remains an important archaeological site that offers insights into Cambodia’s post-Angkor history.

Srei Santhor

Srei Santhor is less well-known than other historical capitals, but it holds significance as an early center of Cambodian administration. The region around Srei Santhor is rich in historical artifacts and remains that reflect its past importance.

Country Facts

Cambodia is a Southeast Asian nation bordered by Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and the Gulf of Thailand. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from the Khmer Empire, French colonial rule, and modern global interactions. Cambodia’s economy is based on agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services. The country is known for its vibrant culture, traditional arts, and significant historical sites, such as Angkor Wat.

• Population: Approximately 16.7 million (2023 estimate)
• Area: 181,035 square kilometers (69,898 square miles)
• Largest City: Phnom Penh
• Currency: Cambodian riel (KHR)
• Official Language: Khmer
• ISO Country Codes: KH, KHM
• Time Zone: ICT (UTC +7)
• Highest Point: Phnom Aural, 1,810 meters (5,938 feet)
• Longest River: Mekong River