Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau Tourism

Type of destination: Historical Site

Ideal visit duration: 1-2 hours

The Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau are a series of natural caves that were infamously used as execution sites by the Khmer Rouge regime during the Cambodian genocide from 1975 to 1979. Situated atop a limestone hill in the Battambang province, these caves are a grim reflection of Cambodia's past. The victims were brought to the mouth of the caves, bludgeoned to death, and then thrown into the abyss below. Today, the caves have been turned into memorials with glass cases displaying the bones and clothes of the victims. A large reclining Buddha statue has also been laid at the entrance to one of the caves, adding a somber and contemplative atmosphere to the location. Visitors typically explore the caves as part of a broader visit to the Phnom Sampeau area, which also offers panoramic views of the countryside and other points of interest, including a mountaintop temple. The Killing Caves are a stark reminder of the cruelty of the Khmer Rouge and serve as a place of remembrance for the atrocities committed during this dark chapter of Cambodian history.

Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau Tourism

Killing Caves of Phnom Sampeau Tourism

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