Angkor Trips - Itinerary

Dark Past of the Wat Thmey Killing Fields

Nearly 7,000 faceless crania stare back from behind the glass of the Choeung Ek
Genocidal Center’s memorial stupa (Buddhist shrine) as you pay your respects to the
unidentified deceased. Who are these men, women, and children, and what befell them during
the Khmer Rouge period? While their individual identities may forever be lost, the primary
objective of this research is to augment knowledge and answer questions not yet addressed
regarding Khmer Rouge violence in Cambodia. By systematically analyzing the human skeletal
remains at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center, which directly retain evidence of violent actions, I
integrate previously undocumented data into a more holistic narrative of Khmer Rouge atrocities.
This research employs a biocultural anthropological approach to address questions
concerning the individuals executed by the Khmer Rouge and the agency (the effect on living
individuals) of the resulting skeletal remains. To achieve this objective I analyzed hundreds of
human crania at the Choeung Ek Genocidal Center to assess demographics and osteological
manifestations of violence, analyzed original Khmer Rouge documents at the Tuol Sleng
Genocide Museum (the former S-21 security center), and assessed the sociocultural implications
of incorporating unidentified human remains into national and local memorials. It is anticipated
that this research will greatly contribute to the literature on Khmer Rouge violence, as well as to the ongoing forensic anthropological focus on crimes against humanity and genocide.

GROUP TOUR
Tour cost are net per person in US Dollar in twin/double sharing room

Dark Past Of The Wat Thmey Killing Fields

Highlight

The Wat Thmey Killing Fields are a significant site to visit in Cambodia, particularly for those interested in the history of the Khmer Rouge regime. Here are the key sights to see:

Stupa Memorial: The centerpiece of Wat Thmey is a large stupa with glass sides, which houses the skulls and bones of victims who died during the Khmer Rouge era. This memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed.
Museum and Exhibits: The site includes a museum that provides context and information about the Khmer Rouge’s brutality, featuring various exhibits that detail the history and impact of this dark period in Cambodian history.
Infamous Well: Visitors can see a well associated with the tragic events of the Killing Fields, which adds to the historical significance of the site.
Personal Stories: Guided tours, such as those led by Sopanha, offer personal insights into the impact of the Khmer Rouge on families, enhancing the understanding of the emotional and historical weight of the site.
Buddhist Monastery: In addition to its memorial function, Wat Thmey serves as an active Buddhist monastery, where visitors can observe local religious practices.

Overall, Wat Thmey is a place of remembrance and reflection, attracting tourists who wish to pay homage to the victims and learn about Cambodia’s history.