Chankiri Tree, Memorial tree in Choeung Ek, Cambodia
The Chankiri Tree is a multi-meter tall tree with deep grooves in its bark and wide branches within the Choeung Ek Memorial Center in Cambodia. A low fence surrounds the trunk, and a sign explains its role during the genocide.
The Khmer Rouge used this tree between 1975 and 1979 as an execution site for infants and toddlers whose parents had already been killed. The grounds were part of a larger killing field where thousands of people were murdered.
Families tie colored ribbons to the lower branches and place small offerings between the roots to honor the murdered children. This practice combines Buddhist traditions with the need for healing and collective memory of the victims.
Most visitors reach the site by tuk-tuk or organized tours from Phnom Penh, which take around 45 minutes. An audio guide in multiple languages is available at the memorial center entrance and helps understand the historical context.
The trunk still shows visible indentations and marks that serve as silent witnesses to the crimes. Visitors report that standing near the tree triggers a particularly strong emotional response, making the horror of history tangible.
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