 The
Silver Pagoda was constructed in 1892 by King Norodom to house the ashes
of the royal family. Among its many treasures is a gold buddha weighing
90 pounds and covered with an astonishing array of over 9000 diamonds.
In later years the Silver Pagoda, which was made of wood, suffered extensive
damage. It was rebuilt in 1962 by King Sihanouk out of more permanent
materials. The king spared no expense, covering the floor with a lavish
series of 5,000 silver tiles. The pagoda was looted during the Khmer Rouge
years, but the Cambodian government has made an effort to restore the
pagoda to its original splendor.
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