Phsar Thom Thmey in early 1960s, Phnom Penh
Phsar Thom Thmey, aka Central Market, is the most interesting site for cultural tourism in Phnom Penh nowadays since it is one of the oldest site in this capital. Phsar Thom Thmey was built from 1935 to 1937 by French for Cambodia. In 1960s, there was the clear plan around this market. The tower of the market with four long branch looked like a flower in the green forest if there was a camera to capture from the sky, but this flower in fact was blooming in the central part of this modern city. The air system along with the construction was considered seriously. Green garden with several green trees were arranged in front of the wide entrance to the market. The car park along the road was set and respected by all citizens in Phnom Penh. As the business center, many people went in and out, but the tidiness of citizens during that time has been being admired until today. Many flats and tall buildings were built along each road near this market. The good view of proper plan for these buildings was seen through the picture captured in Sangkum Reastr Niyum (1953-1970). Many years was gone with changes of Cambodia’s political situation, the good view vanished. Luckily, Central Market is recovered with new style around the ancient building of this market within these last few years. The recovery is conducted with the long-term cooperation between Royal Government of Cambodia and Government of France. The new look of this market is being seen in this year. At last, the busiest business center from previous generation will go on towards the future of Cambodia. “Good Air system in construction bring good health for all people staying in this new building!”
By: POK Panhavuth
Phsar Thom Thmey in 2011, Phnom Penh
