Enough of temples, I guess. Too much of temples make one throws up! Today I shall switch your attention to Phsar Chas. The Phsar Chas or literally known as the Old Market is a market in the city of Siem Reap, Cambodia. The Old Market and surrounding area are one of must sees when visiting Siem Reap.

Phsar Chas, Siem Reap

Among all markets in the Siem Reap area, the Old Market is the most popular among tourists and visitors. Phsar Chas offers the widest selection of souvenirs ranging from traditional Cambodian handicrafts, textiles, statues, ornaments, post cards, tee shirts, tour books and all sort of other tourist items.

Phsar Chas, Siem Reap

Phsar Chas, Siem Reap

Inside Phsar Chas

Some artifacts on display

Paintings

I am not a shopping person. I did not buy a lot during my visit to the Phsar Chas except for a few pieces of tee shirts and post cards. But I was particularly fascinated with the bronze face masks sold in some stalls. I presumed those are the Buddha faces. I was amazed with its delicate carvings, much to the carvings I found during my afternoon visit to the Bayon afterwards.

Bronze Buddha face masks

Bronze Buddha face masks

I am always fascinating with face masks, especially Venetian face masks. These masks which are worn throughout the Venice Carnival are the central feature of the carnival. Venice Carnival (Carnevale di Venezia) is held in Venice every year and its history goes back to as early as 1268. Each of these Venetian masks stands for different meanings such as happy, longing, love, etc. These masks are usually made in leather.

Venetian masks

Venetian face masks

The above pictures are taken from wikipedia

Okay, back to Phsar Chas. Some sections of Phsar Chas caters more to the locals than tourists, selling daily items such as fruits, vegetables, meats, fishes, clothes and many more.

Fresh market inside Phsar Chas

Fresh market inside Phsar Chas

And the area around the Old Market is also lined with restaurants, guesthouses, bars, pubs, massage parlors and spas especially in the Pub Street.

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Author: James N Wong
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