Cambodia and France Plan Major National Museum Expansion

Cambodia’s National Museum is set for a transformative expansion, as part of a joint cultural initiative with France aimed at modernising the country’s most iconic heritage institution.

Built in 1917 and inaugurated in 1920, the museum stands as a landmark of traditional Khmer architecture and houses thousands of artefacts from Cambodia’s prehistoric and Angkorian past. But its current footprint is no longer sufficient. With storage sites overflowing—both on-site and at the Angkor Conservation facility—the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts has launched a feasibility study to expand the museum into the grounds of the Royal University of Fine Arts, which will relocate to Chroy Changvar.

The project is being developed under the Cambodia-France Cooperation Project, with technical teams from both countries working to enhance the museum’s layout, improve visitor experience, and ensure long-term preservation. On Monday, Minister Phoeurng Sackona met with Yannick Lintz, President of France’s Guimet Museum of Asian Arts, to review progress on the 18-month feasibility study, which began last October.

Museum Department Director Chhay Visoth confirmed that restoration works on the ageing structure began in March, focusing on deteriorated walls and fencing. These efforts aim to preserve the museum’s original form while preparing it for future expansion.

The proposed relocation of the Royal University of Fine Arts will unlock significant space for new galleries and public exhibitions, allowing greater access to Cambodia’s vast cultural holdings. The museum’s outdoor displays—including lion statues and carved columns—will also benefit from improved conservation planning.

French funding and expertise are central to the initiative, which reflects a long-standing partnership in heritage preservation. The expansion is expected to conclude its planning phase next year, with construction timelines to follow.

As Cambodia positions itself as a leading cultural destination in Southeast Asia, the museum’s renewal signals a broader commitment to safeguarding its artistic legacy for generations to come.

-2025-09-14