October 29 marks the anniversary of the coronation of King Norodom Sihamoni at the Royal Palace in Phnom Penh in 2004. Cambodia's current monarch was crowned following the abdication of his father, Norodom Sihanouk, who stepped down citing poor health. Sihamoni was Cambodia's Ambassador to UNESCO in Paris at the time and was chosen by the Royal Council of the Throne. He had been trained as a classical Khmer dancer and musician in Prague and Paris, and brought a quiet, arts-centered dignity to the role that stands in contrast to the turbulence of his father's era. He rules as a constitutional monarch with largely ceremonial powers. National Day celebrations feature royal palace events in Phnom Penh and flag displays across the country. In Siem Reap, the Cambodian flag - uniquely among national flags for depicting a building, Angkor Wat - flies from government buildings and many businesses. The city marks the day with official gatherings at the provincial level; Angkor remains open and is particularly atmospheric at sunset on public holidays when local families visit.
- Location
- Siem Reap