Silver Pagoda, Phnom Penh

The Silver Pagoda stands as a remarkable temple within the Royal Palace compound in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. This sacred structure is named for its floor, which is made up of over 5,000 silver tiles, each weighing a kilogram, reflecting an opulence that is hard to match. Known locally as Wat Preah Keo or Temple of the Emerald Buddha, it houses many national treasures including gold and jeweled Buddha statues. Most notable is a small 17th-century baccarat crystal Buddha (the "Emerald Buddha" of Cambodia) and a life-sized gold Maitreya Buddha adorned with 9,584 diamonds.

Built in the 19th century during the reign of King Norodom, the Silver Pagoda is unique because it is one of the few temples in Cambodia that was not destroyed during the Khmer Rouge regime, and it has been preserved in its original form. The temple's main building is a remarkable example of Khmer architecture, with its grand staircase, richly adorned with Italian marble, and its façade featuring a traditional Khmer design.

Aside from its religious significance, the Silver Pagoda is a symbol of the resilience and the cultural heritage of the Cambodian people. Visitors are drawn to its beauty and the intricate craftsmanship of its contents. The temple complex also includes a repository of cultural artifacts, making it an important site for both religious reverence and cultural preservation.