In fact, it is to a legend of one of
The temple hill, known as Wat
the rivers that the city owes its name.
Phnom, is still one of the city’s main
In 1372, Lady Penh discovered a koki
tourist draws. Locals flock here as
tree floating in the river. She fished it
well, asking advice of the fortune tell-
out and discovered four statues of Bud-
ers and worshipping at the shrines.
dha inside. Excited by her find, she
The temple also includes the tomb of
asked local builders to fashion a hill on
King Ponhea Yat, who ruled between
which a wat, or temple, could be built.
1405 and 1467. The area surrounding the hill quickly became known as Phnom (Hill) Penh (for the woman who behind the temple’s construction). An altar to Lady Penh can be found at the site. Legend has it that she is particularly
helpful
to
the
women
who seek her intervention and advice. Phnom Penh is Cambodia’s capital and largest city. More than two million people live here, and since the city has become a major tourism destination in recent decades, the congestion here can sometimes be tremendous. The tropical wet and dry climate can make timing a visit tricky.
68 Asian Fabric 2013