“Puy Du Fou, a French theme park operator, is on the verge of launching an innovative 3D museum titled ‘Immersive Angkor’ in Cambodia. Geoffroy Ladet, the CEO of Puy Du Fou Asia, revealed the project during a meeting with Prime Minister Hun Manet in Paris on January 15, as per a statement shared on Manet’s social media.

During the meeting, Ladet briefed Manet on the company’s progress in Cambodia and outlined the ‘Immersive Angkor’ initiative, utilizing 3D scanning technology to present Khmer culture in a captivating way to visitors.

Positioned as a valuable addition to the tourism sector, the project aims to go beyond the conventional exploration of ancient temples and delve into the richness of ancient Khmer culture. The statement emphasized that the launch of ‘Immersive Angkor’ is expected to happen soon.

Manet expressed his full support for the venture, describing it as “excellent.” He highlighted its potential to educate the younger generation and the public about their cultural heritage and civilization.

Originally scheduled for 2021 but delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the virtual museum will feature 360-degree, 3D images and videos of the Angkor temples within the archaeological park. This immersive experience will be made possible through the use of large-scale scanning drones, ensuring a high level of realism. The project is set to unfold in collaboration with the Apsara National Authority (ANA).”

Here are key benefits of having Immersive Angkor Museum

Enhanced Visitor Experience: Immersive Angkor museum offers a cutting-edge experience that goes beyond traditional visits to ancient temples, providing visitors with a more engaging and memorable encounter with Khmer culture.

Educational Value: The museum serves as an educational platform, enlightening both the younger generation and the general public about the rich cultural heritage and civilization of the Khmer people.

Technological Innovation: Leveraging advanced 3D scanning technology and large-scale scanning drones, the museum showcases a high level of technological innovation, creating a photorealistic and immersive environment.

Cultural Enrichment: By employing 3D images and videos, the museum adds depth and richness to the exploration of Angkor temples, offering a comprehensive understanding of the cultural significance embedded in these historical sites.

Collaboration for Preservation: The collaboration with the Apsara National Authority demonstrates a commitment to the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring that the virtual representation aligns with the historical and archaeological accuracy of the Angkor temples.

Tourism Sector Boost: As a complementary addition to the tourism sector, Immersive Angkor is poised to attract more visitors, contributing to the economic growth of Cambodia’s tourism industry.

Flexible Access: The virtual nature of the museum allows for flexible access, overcoming physical barriers and enabling a global audience to explore and appreciate Khmer culture from anywhere in the world.

Postponement Adaptation: The project’s resilience in adapting to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic showcases its ability to navigate unforeseen circumstances, ensuring the eventual realization of this innovative museum.

Positive Government Support: The expressed support from Prime Minister Hun Manet adds credibility to the project, signaling a positive endorsement at the highest levels of government.

Cultural Diplomacy: The museum serves as a form of cultural diplomacy, fostering international understanding and appreciation for Cambodia’s rich cultural tapestry.

Entertainment Value: Beyond its educational aspects, Immersive Angkor provides entertainment value, making cultural exploration an enjoyable and captivating experience for visitors.

Photorealistic Quality: The use of 3D scanning technology and scanning drones ensures a high-quality, photorealistic presentation, elevating the immersive experience for museum visitors.

Timeless Access: Unlike physical structures that may deteriorate over time, the virtual museum offers timeless access to the preserved beauty of Angkor temples, contributing to their ongoing appreciation.

Innovative Tourism Attraction: Puy Du Fou’s initiative adds an innovative dimension to Cambodia’s tourism offerings, positioning the country as a destination that embraces technological advancements in cultural exploration.

Community Engagement: The project’s development and eventual launch engage local communities, creating opportunities for involvement and fostering a sense of pride in preserving and showcasing their cultural heritage.

Credit: Phnom Penh Post