This unique, art deco building is a Phnom Penh landmark. Prior to 1935 the area was a swamp/lake known as Beng Decho that received the runoff during the rainy season. The lake was drained and the market constructed in 1935-37. Phsar Thmey is currently undergoing a refurbishing project - the interior reconstructed, a new bright yellow paint job, new stalls are being constructed, etc. Many of the vendors have moved to temporary buildings on either side of the market building. The souvenir vendors are in the temporary building on the south side of the market. Even with the construction, Phsar Thmey is still well worth a shopping visit. (Phsar Thmey means ‘New Market’, but ‘Central Market’ has caught on in English).New Market (Psah Thmei)
This unique, art deco building is a Phnom Penh landmark. Prior to 1935 the area was a swamp/lake known as Beng Decho that received the runoff during the rainy season. The lake was drained and the market constructed in 1935-37. Phsar Thmey is currently undergoing a refurbishing project - the interior reconstructed, a new bright yellow paint job, new stalls are being constructed, etc. Many of the vendors have moved to temporary buildings on either side of the market building. The souvenir vendors are in the temporary building on the south side of the market. Even with the construction, Phsar Thmey is still well worth a shopping visit. (Phsar Thmey means ‘New Market’, but ‘Central Market’ has caught on in English).