Foto: The monument at the Killing Fields (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Cambodia - Choeung Ek, also known as the Killing Fields, is an agricultural area about 17 km south of Phnom Penh in an orchard. Prisoners from Tuol Sleng were brought here and killed. To save bullets, the Khmer Rouge killed children by slamming them against trees or struck older people on the head with the butt of rifles. Bleeding to death was also commonly used. At least 17,000 people were killed here between 1975 and 1979. Choeung Ek was just one of many killing fields in Cambodia. In a monument—a white tower with glass windows—many skulls are displayed, sorted by children/adults and male/female. Some graves are only half-excavated, and one can still see the remains of people and clothing inside. It is advised not to visit this museum with young children or adults who get easily emotional. A visit to these fields and the Tuol Sleng Museum often leaves a very profound impression on people. Every year on May 9, a memorial is held for the victims.
The Ancient Temples of Angkor Wat
Cambodia - We get out at the most famous temple, Angkor Wat. The temple is most beautiful to visit in the afternoon due to the setting sun. Angkor Wat is remarkable because of its spectacular architectural design. We walk over the stone entrance bridge across the ...
The Royal Palace and the Silver Pagoda
Cambodia - In the afternoon, we first visit the Wat Phnom temple. The city gets its name from this temple. Inside the temple is a colorful collection of Buddha statues. Around the temple, many (a bit too many) people bother us asking for money. Phnom Penh remains ...