Independence Monument

37 Meter tall lotus bud chedi

Independence Monument stands in the center of a busy traffic circle in the center of Phnom Penh. As traffic is usually quite busy, it’s difficult to get up close to the structure.

The monument is modeled after Cambodia’s most famous monument, the Angkor Wat temple.

Independence from France

Cambodia was a French protectorate from 1863 until 9 November 1953. The Independence Monument was built in 1958 and inaugurated in 1962 to commemorate Cambodia gaining independence from France.

The monument also serves as a memorial for those who gave their life for the country.

Modeled after Angkor Wat

The stupa has a lotus bud shape, modeled after the five lotus bud shaped towers of Angkor Wat, Cambodia’s most famous temple.

Lotus bud design

The 37 meter tall stupa is shaped like a lotus bud. The lotus bud is made up of several levels of diminishing size. On the corners of each level are guardian multi headed Naga snakes. In front of the reddish brown stone monument stand large guardian lion statues.

Illuminated at night

At night Independence Monument looks particularly attractive. After dark the stupa is beautifully illuminated, as are the fountains in the adjoining park.

Adjoining park

Right next to Independence Monument is a pleasant public park. Relax for a while or take a walk to the Mekong river. A few steps from Independence Monument is the Norodom Sihanouk Memorial.

King Norodom Sihanouk statue

The beautifully adorned Norodom Sihanouk Memorial was completed in 2013.

Under a stupa topped with a golden spire standing on a pedestal is a 4½ meter tall bronze statue of King Norodom Sihanouk. The memorial commemorates the King under whose reign Cambodia gained independence from France.

Independence day celebrations

Independence Monument is the center of the annual independence day celebrations on November 9^th. A memorial flame is lit up by an official or by the King himself. Floral wreaths are laid to honor war veterans.