The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda Travel Guide
Exotic Spires and Gables of Gold
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The twin attractions of the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda provide the visitor with a fascinating insight into Cambodia’s royal and religious architecture and art. The sweeping roofs and spires of the buildings of both epitomise the amazing architecture of the region and there are many parallels with the Royal Palace and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok. Elegance and grace reign supreme and a visit is not to be missed.
Constructed in 1869 the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh has served as the home to kings, their court and visiting dignitaries ever since. The Royal Palace complex and attached Silver Pagoda compound is made up of several buildings and gardens located within a 500m x 800m meter walled compound overlooking the river on a site that was once occupied by the former citadel of the Banteay Kev.
The Silver Pagoda, one of the city’s great draws sits next to the Royal Palace and is separated by a walled walkway. Wat Preah Keo Morokat is the pagoda’s Laos name, which means 'The Temple of the Emerald Buddha,' but the popular name comes from the 5329 solid silver floor tiles that grace the temple. As with the Royal Palace the pagoda compound contains several structures and gardens.
Attractions in The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
The golden spire of the Chanchhaya Pavilion is the entranceway to the grounds of the Royal Palace. The residence itself is closed to the public but many of the other buildings can be enjoyed. The Throne Hall is the primary audience hall of the King, used for coronations and diplomatic and other official meetings and this particular one is the second to be built on the site and was constructed in 1917. Other buildings include the Hor Samran Phirun – a resting house, Hor Samrith Phimean – displaying royal regalia, the Napoleon III Pavilion – built for Napoleon’s wide Eugenie and the Phochani Pavilion, dance theatre now used for receptions.
The Silver Pagoda is where the King meets with monks to listen to their sermons and where some Royal ceremonies are performed. It houses a collection of priceless Buddhist and historical artefacts including the 'Emerald Buddha'. This, the primary Buddha, sits on a gilded dais above all others in the temple and is reported by different sources to be made of emerald or Baccarat crystal. In front of the Emerald Buddha stands the Maitreya, the Buddha of the Future, a 90 kg golden standing Buddha encrusted with 2086 diamonds including a 25 carat diamond in the crown and a 20 carat diamond emblazoned on the chest. Other objects include a Buddha relic from Sri Lanka, gifts from nobles and Royals, stupas and statues and renowned frescoes a showing the Khmer version of the Hindu classic, the Ramayana.
Activities in The Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda
Allow around 3 hours to explore the twin complex. A local guide is essential to get the very best from your visit as they will know the history and points of interest of many of the smaller easily overlooked buildings.
Relaxing
After exploring find a quiet spot in the shade of a stupa to admire the artistry of the artisans who created these stunning gilded buildings.
Getting Around
The Royal Palace and Silver pagoda are easily approached on foot from the river.
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