Monument Aux Morts Reconstruction in Phnom Penh Nears Completion at 75%

• Sommana Yan
• 16 May 2023
• Local News
• 3467 Views

The meticulous reconstruction project of the “Two Statues,” dedicated to honoring the heroes of World War I from 1914 to 1918, has made significant progress, reaching an impressive 75% completion. This update was shared by HE Ly Raksmey, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction, on May 15, 2023.

HE Ly Raksmey highlighted the dedication of the technical team from the Ministry, the National Museum of Phnom Penh, and the skilled sculptors and coppersmiths who are painstakingly selecting the original design to ensure the preservation of this historical heritage.

The original monument commemorating those who lost their lives in World War I was erected in 1925 but tragically destroyed during the regime of Democratic Kampuchea in 1975.

Now, the Royal Governments of Cambodia and France have come together to reconstruct the “Two Statues” in front of the French Embassy in Phnom Penh. This noble endeavor serves to honor Cambodia’s contributions in supporting the French army and commemorate France’s victory in World War I. Additionally, the monument symbolizes the enduring friendship, solidarity, and historical cooperation between Cambodia and France.

The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by His Excellency Chea Sophara, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Land Management, Urban Planning, and Construction, and His Excellency Olivier Becht, Minister of European Affairs and French Foreign Affairs, took place on January 25. Since then, the dedicated teams have been diligently working to bring this vision to life. (Read more)

The reconstructed monument showcases a hexagonal structure with three tiers crafted from durable granite concrete. With dimensions of 14.22 meters by 14.22 meters and a towering height of 12.74 meters, the monument incorporates a Khmer art-inspired statue of Khmer French soldiers, exemplifying the fusion of cultures.

As the reconstruction project nears completion, anticipation grows to witness the restored monument’s unveiling—a testament to Cambodia’s historical legacy and its enduring bonds with France. The “Two Statues” will stand as a powerful symbol of remembrance, gratitude, and the unbreakable spirit of collaboration.

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