Photo Gallery

Silver Pagoda (built 1892, rebuilt 1962 onward)

The Silver Pagoda was constructed in 1892 by King Norodom to house the ashes of the royal family. Among its many treasures is a gold buddha weighing 90 pounds and covered with an astonishing array of over 9000 diamonds. In later years the Silver Pagoda, which was made of wood, suffered extensive damage. It was rebuilt in 1962 by King Sihanouk out of more permanent materials. The king spared no expense, covering the floor with a lavish series of 5,000 silver tiles. The pagoda was looted during the Khmer Rouge years, but the Cambodian government has made an effort to restore the pagoda to its original splendor.