Cambodia - the long recovery

Angkor Wat at sunrise

                   

Cambodia's Turbulent History

The history of Cambodia in the 20th century is one of war and oppression. Once home to the mighty Khmer Empire, today Cambodia is still recovering from the devastating Pol Pot regime of the 1970's. The leader of the Khmer Rouge attempted to turn the country into an agrarian society and in the process was responsible for the deaths of 25% of the entire population.

Back to Year Zero

The capital Phnom Penh was emptied of its 2 million inhabitants who were sent to the countryside to work in the fields. By 1979 when Pol Pot was eventually overthrown, 2 million people were dead of starvation or torture.  All educated and professional individuals had been put to death and the country was on its knees. 

Angkor Wat

Today Cambodia is recovering and its amazing history is a huge draw for tourists who contribute substantially to the country's economic recovery. Phnom Penh and the Unesco World Heritage city of Angkor Wat at Siem Reap are the most
popular tourist attractions.  The ancient city of Angkor Wat is actually made up of several cities. Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and the Bayon Temple. The cities were built between the 9th and 15th centuries and vast areas were lost to the jungle for many years. The jungle is still attempting to take back some areas with tree roots weaving their way through the ruins like melting candle wax - a sight well worth visiting!

The Royal Palace in Pnomh Penh

The Killing Fields Memorial