Within the Royal Palace compound lies the magnificent Silver Pagoda. Also known as Wat Preah Keo or Temple of the Emerald Buddha this extravagant temple is a sight to behold. Its name originates from its floor. Five tonnes of gleaming silver cover the floor. You can catch a glimpse of some of the 5000 silver tiles near the entrance. Most are covered for protection though.
The Silver Pagoda isn’t just about its shimmering floor. Inside a treasure trove of Buddha statues awaits. These are crafted from precious metals. One standout is the Emerald Buddha. This isn’t an ancient relic. It’s an extraordinary Baccarat-crystal sculpture. It sits atop a gilded pedestal. Another stunning piece is a life-sized solid-gold Buddha. This Buddha is adorned with 2086 diamonds. The largest diamond weighs an impressive 25 carats. Palace workshops created this gold Buddha between 1906 and 1907. It weighs 90kg.
Directly in front of the gold Buddha sits a miniature silver-and-gold stupa. This holds a relic of Buddha brought from Sri Lanka. More treasures surround the central statues. An 80kg bronze Buddha sits to the left. A silver Buddha stands to the right. Gold figurines on the far right tell the story of the Buddha.
The Silver Pagoda’s history is rich. Originally built of wood in 1892 under King Norodom it was rebuilt in 1962. King Norodom was inspired by Bangkok’s Wat Phra Kaew. Remarkably the Khmer Rouge preserved the pagoda. This was to show the world their commitment to Cambodia’s cultural heritage. Despite the turmoil following the Vietnamese invasion much was lost or destroyed. The surviving treasures are truly spectacular. The Silver Pagoda remains one of the few places showcasing the brilliance of Khmer civilisation.
Intricate masks used in classical dance adorn the pagoda’s walls. Dozens of gold Buddhas also grace the walls. These demonstrate the extraordinary Khmer artisanship. Gifts from foreign heads of state are present. They seem somewhat less impressive than the vibrant Khmer art. The Silver Pagoda stands as a testament to Cambodia’s enduring spirit and artistic legacy. Remember photography is prohibited inside. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this unique temple.