Cambodians and tourists are always impressed by Independence Monument – one the Cambodia country’s most famous building as a memorial place for Cambodian’s patriot who died for the country. The monument attracts thousands of tourists for its unique and authentic style combining both Cambodian’s ancient culture and modernity.
The monument sits in the centre of the city of Phnom Penh
Independence Monument has its own name Vimean Ekareach in Khmer language. Built in 1958 to celebrate the country’s independence from France who ruled Cambodia for almost a century from 1863 to 1953, the Independence Monument stands in the centre of the city where Norodom and Sihanouk Boulevards intersect in Phnom Penh. Now, it also serves as a proud memorial to Cambodia’s war dead who sacrificed their lives for the welfare of the country and a popular site for celebrations and services as well. Visit here with Tours to Cambodia
Independence Monument or Vimean Ekareach was designed by Vann Molyvann who was a father of New Khmer Architecture. The monument owns a majestic beauty mixed of ancient and modern structure. Made of reddish – brown stone, the 20 – meter high monument is shaped in the form of a lotus bud that largely takes after stupas seen at Angkorian Wat and other Khmer historical sites. Particularly, the five level of the monument is adorned with Naga heads (multi – headed cobras) as a symbol of traditional Angkorian architecture. Such ancient features are combined with the popular modernist movement of high – spiking roofs that impresses people by both its dignified and magnificent beauty.
The structure of the monument is combined by both Cambodian’s ancient culture and modernity
The surrounding area is dotted with other monuments such as The Cambodian Vietnamese Friendship Monument which built in 1979 to commemorate the Vietnamese liberation of Cambodian from years of Khmer Rouge terror, The National Assembly known as a distinctively Khmer building, etc. Especially, an impressive visual is at night when monument is decorated by the fountain illuminated by blue, red and white floodlights which are the colors that embody the Cambodian national flag.
The impressive of the monument at night
Every year, Independence Monument becomes a centre of official activities during national festivities such as Independence Day and Constitution Day. On such occasion, Ceremonial flames are lit inside the Monument by royal or high state representatives. Thousands of Cambodian flowers lining the stairs enhance the beauty of Vann Molyvann‘s design – the masterpiece of his life time and of the country. Visit Cambodia with Indochina travel Cambodia
The Independence Monument is appealing for its serene atmosphere which makes it a sought-after destination. When coming to Cambodian, walking around the city of Phnom Penh, let visit to the Independence Monument to have unforgettable experiences.
The Indochina Voyages team.
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