Central Market - also referred to as Phsah Thmei (New Market) - is one of the major landmarks in Phnom Penh.

Designed by Jean Desbois and erected in Art Deco style, Central Market was the largest of its kind in Asia when it was opened in 1937 during the French colonial era.

Before the Market was built, this area was actually a lake which was drained. When it rains now, the market still floods but it is difficult to tell whether this is because of the run-off or poor drainage. During the Franco-Thai war the Central Market Phnom Penh was bombed by Thai war planes. This caused heavy damage and the Central Market had to be closed. When  war  was over the market was rebuilt and opened its doors again for business.