Independence Monument of Phnom Penh

The Independence Monument of Phnom Penh stands in the centre of Phnom Penh, inaugurated on the 9th of November 1962 to marked the ninth year of the independence of Cambodia from foreign oppression (mainly from the French!). The Independence Monument is located on the cross roads of Sihanouk Boulevard and Norodom Boulevard, the two main wide boulevards of Phnom-Penh.

The Independence Monument is the work of architect Cambodia Vann Molyvann who employed the traditional architecture styles of the Khmer peoples. The Monument is designed as a lotus-shaped stupa and is a representation of the most famous sight of Cambodia - Angkor Wat. The upper levels of the 20 meter red stone monument are decorated with 100 snake heads.

During the national holiday the area surrounding the Independence Monument is the focus of the celebrations and the ceremonial flame is lit by a member of the royal family. The monument also acts as a remembrance memorial to all the soldiers and causalities who have died during the turbulent history of Cambodia.