Cambodia Tuol Sleng/S-21, Phnom Penh
Maybe not the most photogenic place, but a visit to Cambodia would not be complete without seeing this museum to understand the recent history of the country.
Originally, the site had been a high school but when the Khmer Rouge swept into power, it became Security Prison 21, a place where victims of the revolution were tortured to death in huge numbers, and everyone was presumed to be an enemy. Even the guards who operated the place were, in waves, declared corrupt and murdered in the same gruesome way that they had killed others.
The number who died there between 1976 and 1979 is estimated at around 20,000 but it is more shocking than Auschwitz.
Edward’s images were taken in 1992 when the Khmer Rouge was still active but had been largely driven out of Phnom Penh while still laying mines in and around the Angkor area.
Originally, the site had been a high school but when the Khmer Rouge swept into power, it became Security Prison 21, a place where victims of the revolution were tortured to death in huge numbers, and everyone was presumed to be an enemy. Even the guards who operated the place were, in waves, declared corrupt and murdered in the same gruesome way that they had killed others.
The number who died there between 1976 and 1979 is estimated at around 20,000 but it is more shocking than Auschwitz.
Edward’s images were taken in 1992 when the Khmer Rouge was still active but had been largely driven out of Phnom Penh while still laying mines in and around the Angkor area.
Photography Tips
Be respectful! Signs say "no photography", but as long as you are respectful and don't go overboard with shooting images, you will have no problem.
Travel Information
You take a taxi, trishaw, or a motorbike taxi. Everyone in Phnom Penh knows the location of this museum. It is also called "S-21".
Spot Type
Outdoor
Crowd Factor
A decent amount of people
Best Timing
Daytime
Sunrise & Sunset
05:58 - 17:34
| current local time: 06:20
Photo Themes
history
Khmer Rouge
museum
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