French theme park operator Puy du Fou is developing an innovative museum in Cambodia called ‘Immersive Angkor’ dedicated to the history of the Khmer civilisation.
Angkor in Cambodia’s northern province of Siem Reap is one of Southeast Asia’s most important archaeological sites and contains ancient temples including Angkor Wat.
Via the Khmer Times, prime minister of Cambodia, Hun Manet, expressed his support for the project in a recent meeting with Geoffroy Ladet, CEO of Puy du Fou Asia.
“Cambodia has the honour and privilege to be the heir nation of Angkor,” said Soreasmey Ke Bin, CEO of Confluences, a project partner.
New museum to focus on Khmer empire
“We know that the archaeological park attracts millions of visitors each year. This was the case before Covid and it will quickly become so again, we are optimistic about it.”
According to Confluences, the new museum will focus on the Khmer empire and the Angkorian temples. It will use 3D technology to immerse visitors in depictions of the ancient temples.
“Visiting the temples, especially when you go there for the first time, is something wonderful and unforgettable, nevertheless Khmer history and civilization are complex and can be difficult to understand,” said Soreasmey.
The Immersive Angkor museum is being developed in response to a slump in international tourism in Cambodia. The project is estimated to cost around $1 million.
Puy du Fou, an award-winning historical and cultural theme park operator, is also looking for its first UK site. As well as its original park in France, Puy du Fou has a permanent site in Toledo, Spain.
Elsewhere, the group is opening a new show called Saga in Shanghai, and developing a new park in China. Additionally, Puy du Fou is creating a walk-through show about Cherokee history in Sevier County, Tennessee.
Images: Creative Commons and Puy du Fou
