Having opened its gates to the public in September, 2003 the Cambodian Cultural Village has become a popular tourist venue in Siem Reap for all the reasons that make it one of the best attractions in the country. Offering guests a unique and unhindered look at the diverse and impressive cultural heritage of the Khmer people, the CCV extensively explores the arts, crafts, architecture, sports, customs and traditions of its populace within the 210,000 square meter enclave.
Divided into the Khmer Village, Phnorng Village, Floating and Fishing Village, the Millionaire's House, Kroeung Village, Chinese Village, Cham Village, Khmer Association Overseas and the Kola Village, the CCV first explores the predominant architectural styles of Khmer households with specially designated areas devoted to each building method. Highlights include the Sala Chans, Peth houses and Raungdoeung houses in Khmer Village as well as the richly decorated interiors of the Millionaires House, which housed the countrys affluent citizens during the Oudong era.
Showcasing the most influential figures of Cambodian history from the first to the 20th century, the two museums at the CCV displays life like replicas of royals, generals, film stars, traditional dancers and other dignitaries. In addition, the CCV also boasts an impressive enclave devoted to the nations most famous historic and religious sites. Accurately constructed with attention to detail, the miniatures featured in this area include those of the Royal Palace, the National Museum, Phsar Thmey, Wat Phnom, the Independence Monument, the Kompong Kdey Bridge, the Reclining Buddha and the ancient capital of Ou Dong.
Those who wish to gain an understanding of Cambodias performance arts field and its prolific history can experience a wide variety of traditional performances at the CCV. The Khmer wedding ceremony show, Apsara dance, peacock dance, Kroeung minority dance, umbrella dance and the coconut shell dance are some of the preferred options at the venue which also has elaborate fishing performances, scarf shows, acrobatic shows, lion dances, stilt walkers and water & fire master shows in its repertoire.
Guests can also witness local craftsmen moulding stunning masterpieces at the CCVs silver, wood and stone carving workshops, which are devoted to traditional handicrafts and the ancient methods in which the pieces were created for centuries.
Travellers on the lookout for a
Siem Reap hotel in the heart of the town will be more than pleased with the elegant Raffles Grand Hotel d'Angkor. Ideally situated within 8km of the international airport, this stylish
Angkor hotel is also located within minutes of the main market and riverbed boulevard.
