Battambang is Cambodia's second-largest city, it has about 200,000 inhabitants. It is the capital of Battambang Province in the west of Cambodia. Traditionally Battambang has been Cambodia's leading rice-producing province. The name Battambang means "loss of stick". It is spelled "Battambong", slightly stressed on the last syllable. In the 19th century Battambang and other parts of Northwestern Cambodia were annexed by Siam (Thailand).
Battambang's main attraction is the Cambodia's best-preserved French colonial architecture, the picturesque houses and shops from the early 20th century are clustered along the Sangkae riverbank. The hugest colonial building is the Governours Residence. Famous Art Deco buildings are the Central market, the Victory swimming pool, and the railway station.
Battambang's main attraction is the Cambodia's best-preserved French colonial architecture, the picturesque houses and shops from the early 20th century are clustered along the Sangkae riverbank. The hugest colonial building is the Governours Residence. Famous Art Deco buildings are the Central market, the Victory swimming pool, and the railway station.
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There are some temples in the surroundings of the city, such as Phnom Banom and modern Wat Ek including structures that already date from the classical Angkor times. One main attraction is another strikingly steep hill to the west of the city. It is called Phnom Sampeau, meaning "Mount Ship". Buildings of a new pagoda and three natural wells are situated on top of it. Phnom Sampeau became notoriuos for its Khmer Rouge killing caves.
Bucolic villages just south of the city can be visited on day trips by bicycle or moto. The cultural village of Watkor has several wooden houses from the early 20th century. A scenic river and lake boattrip links Battambang with Siem Reap.
Bucolic villages just south of the city can be visited on day trips by bicycle or moto. The cultural village of Watkor has several wooden houses from the early 20th century. A scenic river and lake boattrip links Battambang with Siem Reap.
