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Phnom Penh's Royal Palace is a must see on any visit to Cambodia's capital. A complex of more than 15 buildings, including the stunning Silver Pagoda, the palace remains the official residence of HM King Norodom Sihamoni.
Buildings of Phnom Penh's Royal Palace The complex is divided by walls into three main compounds, on the north side is the Silver Pagoda and to the south-west is the Khemarin Palace and a central compound containing the Throne Hall. The buildings of the palace were built gradually overtime, and some were dismantled and rebuilt as late as the 1960s. Throne Hall
The Khmer name for the Throne Hall is Preah Thineang Vinnichay meaning the "Sacred Seat of Judgement." The Throne Hall is where the king's confidants, generals and royal officials once carried out their duties. It is still in use today as a place for religious and royal ceremonies (such as coronations and royal weddings) as well as a meeting place for guests of the King. The cross-shaped building is crowned with three spires. The central, 59 meter spire is topped with the white, four-faced head of Brahma. Inside the Throne Hall contains a royal throne and busts of Cambodians kings of the past. On the left wing of the building there is a small palanquin-style throne with a life-size bronze statue of King Sisowath in royal regalia. Khemarain Palace The Khemarin Palace is the common English name for a building called Prasat Khemarin in Khmer meaning the "Palace of the Khmer King." It is used a residence by the King of Cambodia. This compound is separated from other buildings by a small wall and is located to the right of the Throne Hall. The main building is topped with a single spired prang. Chan Chhaya Pavilion The Preah Thineang Chan Chhaya ("Moonlight Pavilion"), is an open-air pavilion that serves as stage for Khmer classical dance in the past and present. It is one of the most notable buildings of the palace as it easily seen from the outside as it was built along side a section of the palace walls. The Chan Chhaya Pavilion has a balcony that was used as a platform for viewing parades marching along Sothearos Boulevard of Phnom Penh. Other Structures Of lesser significance include a French-style building that was a gift from Napoleon III, a Royal Dining Hall, and a pavilion-like theatre.
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