Killing Fields, Cambodia
Choeung Ek Genocidal Center
Skulls of some of those killed here
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Just outside of the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh is one of the largest and most harrowing of the Khmer Rouge Killing Fields. It’s best visited in conjunction with a morning visit to the S21 Prison, where many victims were held before meeting their tragic and violent fate at the Killing Fields.
As a scene of mass murder, this place invariably provokes strong emotions. It’s almost impossible to comprehend what happened here however the education and continued conversation regarding the horrifying Cambodian genocide is something that the country is incredibly passionate about. As such, the Killing Fields have been conscientiously opened to tourists, designed in such a way to allow visitors to take their time and reflect.
You don't have to use an audio guide but I strongly recommend that you do. The self-guided tour, in a wide range of languages, really effectively educates the visitor whilst remaining incredibly respectful to the hours that this site has seen. The witness testimonies from survivors that are included are particularly moving.
Along with the partly exhumed mass graves and other distressing features utilised by the Khmer Rouge routine, the centre houses a large stupa which acts as a monument to all those killed here. It contains 5000 human skulls; a chilling reminder of this not too distant history.