The Royal Palace, Phnom Penh

History of the Royal Palace

Built after King Norodom moved the capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh in the late 1860s, the Royal Palace rests on the site of an old citadel, Banteay Keav. It is a complex behind protective walls of several splendid buildings and pavilions on well manicured French style gardens. On the grounds are life-sized sculptures of Khmer warriors and Buddhas in several poses of meditation. Most of the palace grounds, except for the Royal Residence, are open to the public.

Throne Hall

Also known as Preah Thineang Dheva Vinnichay or the "Sacred Seat of Judgement”, the current grand building replaced the original wooden structure in 1919. It is the coronation site for Khmer kings and the venue for royal weddings and ceremonies. The eaves of the steep tile roofs are decorated with flying deities and soaring into the skies is a Bayon style 59 ft spire on which are carved the four faces of Hindu god Brahma, gazing out at the main compass points.

Khemarin Palace

The official residence of King Sihamoni is separated from the other buildings by a small wall. With a resplendent façade, the main building is topped by a single spire. This is closed to the public.

Chan Chaya Pavilion

The golden spired Chan Chaya Pavilion is often lit up at night to commemorate festivals or anniversaries. An open air pavilion, it is the performance stage for the Royal Dancers and the venue for state and royal banquets.

Other Royal Structures