Visit the Museum
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The main entrance to Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum- (S-21)
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"Graphic's review, Oct 2014- I have rated this" Excellent"-not because it is a "good" place, but because I feel the world deserves to know the story of this horrific place with true detail and no frills and this is what this offers.
A visit to here kind of goes hand in hand with a visit to the Killing fields in order to get the full picture of the what happened in Cambodia in the 70's during the reign of the Khmer Rouge. This place was originally a school and then a prison (S21) and since it was opened up to the public I dont imagine much has changed apart from the tombs of its last victims in the courtyard. The cells still have torture implements in them along with the basic bed and a toilet box (we thought it was a box which originally had shells/bullets in it) They also have a photo on the wall of a victim who died/was tortured in that cell. There is still dried blood spatter on the walls and roof.In another block where cells have been split into smaller cells , there is still even blood on the floor. There are several rooms with photos of victims "before" (ie.when they came into S21) and "after" ie after they had been tortured. This is sad viewing- it includes children. Another block houses a museum of torture implements along with graphic paintings of how they were used.These paintings were done by a survivor of the camp who has wriiten a book about his experience there.His name is Bou Meng and he was saved because he was an artist. He is there today and sells his book |
(signed - and will pose for a photo handing the book to the buyer). I felt quite humble and honoured to meet a man who had survived against such odds. Another survivor is also there.He is Chum Mey ,a mechanic, who was singled out to repair the typewriters that his torturers used to record their forced confessions.
I think what got me most was the fact that these atrocities happened in my lifetime... not some past era. Although now a "tourist attraction"it is certainly diiferent . I think this place should be treated with respect ,( like Auschwitz) as so many people died here.
I have to say I left this place with a lump in my throat.
Please note a visit here is not for those easily distressed , nor suitable for children.
I think what got me most was the fact that these atrocities happened in my lifetime... not some past era. Although now a "tourist attraction"it is certainly diiferent . I think this place should be treated with respect ,( like Auschwitz) as so many people died here.
I have to say I left this place with a lump in my throat.
Please note a visit here is not for those easily distressed , nor suitable for children.
