The Independence Monument was erected in 1958 in Phnom Penh, capital of Cambodia to commemorate Cambodia’s independence from French colonialism in 1953. Designed by Cambodian architect Vann Molyvann, who was ‘personally selected and instructed’ by Prince Norodom Sihanouk on how it should look like, the 37 meters tall symbol took the form of a lotus very much the same as the design of the Bakong Temple from the Roluos group of the 9th century. The one-hundred Nagas and snake motif can be seen in historical, cultural, archaeological, and business contexts.

On 9th November each year, government officials from the various ministries and institutions would congregate here to jubilantly celebrate the anniversary of the national independence.

In commemoration of the souls of brave combatants and heroes who had laid down their lives for the freedom of the country, senior military and police officers would march before the Independence Monument, accompanied by a military band. The King ceremoniously lights up the ‘Glory Torch’ placed inside the monument; then in a festive manner, colorful balloons are let loose into the sky.