National Museum of Cambodia | Phnom Penh

Information

Landmark: National Museum of Cambodia
City: Phnom Penh
Country: Cambodia
Continent: Asia

National Museum of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Asia

The National Museum of Cambodia is a historical and cultural institution located in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. It houses a significant collection of Khmer art and artifacts.

Visual Characteristics

The museum building is constructed from sandstone and brick, painted in a pale ochre color. It features a central courtyard and is designed in a traditional Khmer architectural style, characterized by tiered roofs and ornate carvings. The main structure has two stories.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated at Street 178, Daun Penh District, Phnom Penh. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers west of the Royal Palace. Parking is available on-site. Bus lines 1, 3, and 4 stop within a 500-meter radius of the museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The museum was designed by George Groslier and built between 1917 and 1924. It was originally intended to house Khmer art and artifacts to preserve Cambodian cultural heritage. The architectural style is a revival of Khmer temple architecture.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can view exhibits of pre-Angkorian and Angkorian sculptures, ceramics, bronzes, and ethnographic objects. The museum offers guided tours that depart at 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 4:00 PM daily.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the ground floor. Limited shaded areas are present in the courtyard. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the museum premises. Food vendors are not located within the museum but are present on nearby streets.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for optimal lighting on the artifacts is between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The dry season, from November to April, offers the most comfortable weather conditions for visiting.

Facts & Legends

A notable artifact within the collection is the Statue of Jayavarman VII, a significant representation of the Khmer Empire's last great king. The museum's design itself is considered a significant example of Khmer architectural revival.