Chrey Pagoda

Have you ever heard of a pagoda that’s made of silver? You’re looking at it now; this is the Chrey Pagoda, also known as Wat Preah Keo. Built in the 19th century, it’s more than just a place of worship. It’s a treasure trove of Cambodian art and history. You might be wondering why it’s called the Silver Pagoda. Well, look down at the floor. It’s covered with over 5,000 silver tiles, each one glistening under the sunlight streaming through the windows. These tiles are just the start. Inside, you’ll find stunning statues of Buddha, some made of pure gold, and even a life-sized Maitreya Buddha, adorned with 9,584 diamonds. But there’s more than just glitz and glamour here, a secret that few visitors know. The Chrey Pagoda was once used as a place for Buddhist monks to study and practice. The grounds of the Chrey Pagoda are also home to the cremains of King Norodom Sihanouk, Cambodia’s former King, who was a Buddhist monk himself for a time. And keep your eyes peeled for the intricate murals that depict stories of the Reamker, the Cambodian version of the Ramayana epic, painted on the walls of the complex. They are a glimpse into Cambodia’s fascinating literary heritage.