Phnom Penh

In 1865, King Norodom decided to move the capital of Cambodia from Oudong to Phnom Penh, marking the beginning of Phnom Penh's role as the administrative and economic hub of the country. This was a significant event as it established Phnom Penh as the center of Cambodian political life, fostering new developments in the city's infrastructure and economy. The decision by King Norodom was influenced by the strategic location of Phnom Penh along two major rivers, the Mekong and the Tonle Sap, which facilitated trade and governance. The city soon grew into a bustling center with new governmental buildings, markets, and royal palaces, laying the foundation for its future growth and modernization. This change marked a pivotal shift in the Cambodian kingdom's dynamics, as Phnom Penh was set to become the heart of the nation's culture and politics for decades to come.

The construction of the Central Market (Psar Thmei) in Phnom Penh began in 1935 during the French colonial period, and it was inaugurated in 1937. This market is noted for its unique Art Deco style architecture, which was a symbol of the modernization efforts by the French in Cambodia. The Central Market played a crucial role in the commercial activities of Phnom Penh, providing a central place for the exchange of goods ranging from local produce to French imports. Its distinctive dome and four wings are not only architectural landmarks in Phnom Penh but also represent the fusion of traditional and modern influences during that period. The establishment of such a market showed the impact of colonial architectures and urban planning on Phnom Penh's development and cultural landscape.

On November 9, 1953, Cambodia declared its independence from French colonial rule, marking a significant moment for Phnom Penh as the capital of a newly sovereign nation. King Norodom Sihanouk played a pivotal role in the peaceful negotiations for independence, which was granted without conflict. This ended over 90 years of French protectorate status, and Phnom Penh became the center of national celebrations. The event symbolized a new era for the city and the country, as it embarked on paths of self-governance and development free from colonial influence. Celebrations took place across the capital with parades, cultural displays, and the presence of international dignitaries. Phnom Penh's status as the symbolic heart of the nation was solidified during this pivotal period.

On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge seized control of Phnom Penh, marking a devastating period in the history of Cambodia. The entry of Khmer Rouge forces into the capital resulted in the abrupt evacuation of its population to the countryside as part of the regime's radical policies to transform Cambodia into an agrarian society. This event marked the beginning of years of turmoil, suffering, and genocide under Pol Pot's communist regime. The fall of Phnom Penh was followed by years of brutal dictatorship where intellectuals, professionals, and perceived dissidents were targeted, leading to the deaths of an estimated 1.7 million people. The city, once a flourishing cultural and economic hub, was left desolate and in ruins by the end of the Khmer Rouge's rule in 1979.

On January 7, 1979, Vietnamese forces entered Phnom Penh, ending the oppressive rule of the Khmer Rouge and beginning the process of rebuilding the city and the nation. This marked a turning point as it led to the establishment of the People's Republic of Kampuchea, backed by Vietnam, and the gradual restoration of civil institutions and societal norms. As Vietnam seized Phnom Penh, it was largely abandoned and in disrepair, with much of its infrastructure devastated by years of war and neglect. The city, once emptied of its residents, began to repopulate as people returned by the thousands seeking safety and stability. This liberation reshaped Phnom Penh once again, setting the stage for peace and reconstruction, although it also ushered in a strained international situation with continued conflicts and humanitarian challenges.

The withdrawal of Vietnamese troops from Cambodia on April 30, 1989, marked a major step in the peace process following more than a decade of military occupation. This event was crucial for Phnom Penh as it symbolized the restoration of national sovereignty and the end of foreign influence over the Cambodian government. The Vietnamese presence, while it had ended the Khmer Rouge’s rule, had been a point of contention internally and internationally. As Vietnamese troops left, efforts towards political reconciliation within Cambodia advanced, including the negotiation of peace agreements and United Nations involvement. This withdrawal paved the way for the eventual signing of the 1991 Paris Peace Agreements, which were critical for Phnom Penh and the entire country in rebuilding and moving forward towards stability and democracy.

The Paris Peace Agreements, signed on October 23, 1991, marked a major milestone for Cambodia, including its capital Phnom Penh, in ending years of conflict and paving the way for peace, sovereignty, and democracy. These accords, signed by 19 governments, involved comprehensive agreements on the cease-fire, the withdrawal of foreign troops, and the reform and democratization of the Cambodian state. The agreements established the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC), which helped facilitate national elections and transitional governance frameworks. For Phnom Penh, these accords promised a new beginning, with international support for reconstruction and development, and for laying the foundations for the political structures that would define the nation's future. The signing of these agreements represented the hope for an end to decades of war and instability.

In June 1993, Phnom Penh witnessed the first national elections under United Nations supervision after years of civil conflict. This event was a landmark in Cambodia's history as it marked the transition to democratic governance and peacebuilding efforts following decades of warfare and political turmoil. The elections were administered by the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) and saw an unprecedented voter turnout, signifying the public's hope for change and stability. Despite threats and violence from factions opposed to the electoral process, the elections proceeded and resulted in the formation of a coalition government. For Phnom Penh, the success of these elections ushered in a new era of international recognition and support, further highlighting its role as the political epicenter of the nation.

The National Museum of Cambodia in Phnom Penh was officially opened to public in its current form on March 29, 2003, housing the world's largest collection of Khmer art. Originally established in 1920 by the French colonial administration, the museum underwent extensive renovations before its reopening. It is home to over 14,000 pieces, tracing back to the pre-Angkorian era to modern times, offering a comprehensive overview of Cambodia’s artistic heritage. This museum plays a crucial role in preserving Cambodia's cultural identity and history, serving both as a center of research and education about Khmer art and civilization. Its existence reflects Phnom Penh's position as the cultural heart of the nation, aiming to educate both locals and visitors about the rich artistic traditions of Cambodia.

On July 26, 2010, the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, located in Phnom Penh, delivered its first verdict in the trial of Kang Kek Iew, better known as Comrade Duch. Duch was the head of the infamous Tuol Sleng prison under the Khmer Rouge regime where thousands were tortured and murdered. He was convicted of crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, and murder, and was sentenced to 35 years in prison, later reduced to a life sentence. This verdict was a significant moment in Phnom Penh’s history, as it represented a step toward justice and reconciliation for the victims of the Khmer Rouge. It remains a historic milestone in Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to come to terms with its past and seek justice for the atrocities committed during one of the darkest periods in its history.