Phnom Penh (FN), Sep. 18 – After welcoming more than 5,300 visitors last year, the French Embassy in Cambodia will once again open to the public for Heritage Day on Saturday (Sep 21) from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event is part of European Heritage Day, providing an opportunity for the public to explore or rediscover the historic embassy, one of the largest green spaces in Phnom Penh. Visitors can tour the Embassy Park, a 4.7-hectare area that is home to a rich biodiversity, including more than 200 trees representing about 50 species, and around 30 species of animals such as birds, monkeys, deer and insects.

Visitors will also have the chance to see the old gate of the embassy, which endured a bitter history when Phnom Penh fell in 1975, nearly 50 years ago. As they leave the embassy, visitors can view a photo exhibition on the embassy's fence showcasing Cambodian Breakdance, a form of dance that was featured in the recently concluded Paris 2024 Olympics. Guided tours will be available in Khmer, French, and English.

Admission is free, especially in the morning, but visitors should expect to wait in line as no pre-registration is required. However, due to high visitor numbers, large bags and dangerous items are prohibited. Visitors are encouraged to bring drinking water and wear appropriate shoes, as parts of the park have small cobblestones and grassy areas.

First launched by France in 1985, European Heritage Day is now celebrated in more than 50 countries. In Cambodia, other notable heritage buildings will also be open to the public on 21 September including the Council for the Development of Cambodia (open for the first time), the UNESCO Office, the Royal University of Fine Arts, and Angkor Conservation in Siem Reap. Opening hours and visiting procedures are determined by each institution.
=FRESH NEWS