The Royal Palace Complex in Phnom Penh, Cambodia was built as a symbol of the kingdom for the King of Cambodia and his family. It was the venue that was used to perform court ceremonies and rituals. Even today, it serves the same purpose as the residence of the King Norodom Sihamoni and previous King Norodom Sihanouk.
Majority of the buildings in the palace complex were built before World War I. The involvement of French for the construction is reflected by the French influence in the formal gardens of the palace. The entrance to the Royal Palace is a high walled and gold plated Chanchaya Pavilion. The high wall retains a silent atmosphere in the Royal Palace blocking the noise coming from the streets. Most of the places in the palace complex except the Khemarin Palace where the royal family lives are open to the public.
The complex has various buildings that add glory and beauty to it. Villa Kantha Bopha built in 1956 is named after the late daughter of King Sihanouk, Kantha Bopha. This western styled building was used as a residing place for foreigners who come to visit the King.
Administrative Offices of the palace are known as the Damnak Chan, originally this was built to use as the High Council of the Throne. It illustrates a mix of Khmer and Western style of architecture. Visitors are not given permission to see the interior of the Damnak Chan. Phochani Pavilion is an open hall in the complex built in 1912 which was used as a classical dance theater. Presently Royal receptions are held here.
The first ever permanent structure in the complex is the European styled Napoleon III Pavilion built for Empress Eugenie of France, wife of Napoleon III and is still the most amazing building in the complex. Now it has been converted to a small museum which houses a photographic exhibition and royal memorabilia.
Visitors who are hoping to visit the Royal Palace can find a
luxury hotel in Cambodia such as the Raffles Hotel Le Royal. This
5 star hotel in Phnom Penh is exclusive in its approach to accommodation and legendary in regards to its hospitality.
