National Museum of Cambodia

Overview

The National Museum of Cambodia is the country's leading historical and archaeological museum, holding the world's largest collection of Khmer art. Housed in a striking terracotta-red building from 1920, it covers Cambodian history from prehistoric times through the Angkorian period to the present.

Highlights

• Angkorian Sculpture Gallery: Masterpieces including the 11th-century bronze reclining Vishnu from the Western Mebon temple.
• Pre-Angkorian Collection: Rare artefacts from the Funan and Chenla kingdoms dating to the 5th–8th centuries.
• Central Courtyard: A serene garden with lotus ponds and a statue of the leprous king.

History

Designed by French architect George Groslier and built by Cambodian artisans in 1917–1920, the museum was modelled on traditional Khmer temple architecture. Its red sandstone colour and multi-tiered roofs have made it an architectural icon of Phnom Penh.

Visitor Tips

• Photography: No flash photography inside galleries; exterior shots freely allowed.
• Guided tours: Available in English and French; ask at the ticket counter.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.