When the capital was moved to Phnom Penh. Most buildings were completed before World War I, with involvement by the French.
The creators likely aimed to evoke the rich cultural heritage and visual splendour of Thai art to enhance the setting’s exotic and mystical atmosphere. This choice helps ground the fantasy world in recognisable real-world aesthetics, making it more visually compelling and culturally rich.
Thai architects and artisans play a significant role in the construction and design of the Cambodian Royal Palace. When King Norodom commissioned the palace in 1866, he enlisted the help of Thai craftsmen and architects, given the strong historical and cultural ties between Cambodia and Thailand. These Thai experts contributed to the palace’s design, which resulted in the distinctive blend of Khmer and Thai architectural styles that can be seen in the palace complex today.
The palace was constructed between 1866 and 1870, after King Norodom relocated the royal capital from Oudong to Phnom Penh. It was built atop an old citadel called Banteay Keo. It faces approximately East and is situated at the Western bank of the cross division of the Tonle Sap River and the Mekong River called Chaktomuk (an allusion to Brahma).
History