CENTRAL MARKET
This market in Phnom Penh, a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture, offers a wide variety of products.
Called Phsar Thmey in Cambodian, this huge market, a magnificent example of Art Deco architecture, is one of the city's most famous buildings. In the 1920s, to cope with a strong increase in population from the end of the previous century, the need for a large market is felt in Phnom Penh. The decision was made to build the central market on a dry swamp, in the heart of what was then Chinatown. However, the project was not completed until 1937, delayed by the effects of the Great Depression. The plans were entrusted to the French architect Jean Desbois, who had to take into account the climatic constraints of the region, namely sun and rain. However, the heavy rainfall of the rainy season on this former swamp has long created flooding. The market consists of a dome of 26 meters high, extended by 4 wings of 19 meters high. Originally the spaces between the four wings were planted with gardens, but over the years stalls of merchants were installed, to become permanent during the last renovations. Between 2009 and 2011, a major renovation funded by the French Development Agency saw the repair of the entire concrete structure, and the addition of sales spaces on the sides.
When it opened, the Phnom Penh market was one of the largest in the world. It is now in operation and offers local buyers a wide variety of products, but also visitors a range of souvenirs and postcards.
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