National Museum of Cambodia

George Groslier (1887-1945), historian, curator and author was the motivating force behind much of the revival of interest in traditional Cambodian arts and crafts, and it was he who designed this quintessential building that is today synonymous with traditional Khmer architecture. It is perhaps better described as a building enlarged from Cambodian temple prototypes seen on ancient bas-reliefs and reinterpreted through colonial eyes to meet museum-size requirements. Intended museum was soon associated with the Ecole des Arts Cambodgiens (1917) and became known as the Cambodge in 1919. In 1920, this museum was soon to be officially renamed Albert Sarraut after the then Governor-General of Indochina.The foundation stone for the new museum was laid on 15 August 1917. Some two-and-a-half years later, the completed museum was inaugurated during Khmer New Year on 13 April 1920 in the presence of H.M King Sisowath,and M. Groslier, directeur des Arts cambodgiens, and conservateur.The National Museum have a lot of ancient, so many people want to visit here.

Located next to the Royal Palace, the National Museum is easily recognized by its distinctive rusty-red exterior and traditional Cambodian terra-cotta roof. Build between 1917 and 1920, the Museum offers a charming setting for a stunning collection of ancient Khmer artifacts. There are more than 5,000 interesting items, including and eight armed statue of Vishnu ( 7th Century), a statue of Shiva ( 9th Century) and a statue of the Buddha from pre-Angkor period.