Archaeologists unearth 12 centuries-old sandstone statues at the Angkor World Heritage Site, shedding new light on Khmer cultural heritage.
In a significant archaeological find, a team of researchers has unearthed a dozen centuries-old sandstone statues at the Angkor World Heritage Site in Cambodia.
The discovery, made near the north gate of the 11th-century Royal Palace at Angkor Thom, has been hailed as a remarkable addition to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The statues, which depict so-called “door guardians,” were found buried at depths of up to 1.4 meters (4.5 feet) and are believed to date back to the Khmer Empire’s construction period.
The figures, varying in size from approximately 39 to 43 inches, are in surprisingly good condition, with each featuring unique facial hair ornaments that add to their distinctive charm.
“Experts believe these door guardian statues exemplify the Khneang Style, aligning with the construction period of the 11th-century palace,” stated the Apsara National Authority, the government agency responsible for overseeing the Angkor Archaeological Park.
The discovery is particularly significant as the Angkor site has long been a target for art and cultural looting, especially during the turbulent periods of civil war and the brutal Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s.
However, in recent decades, Cambodia has made strides in repatriating many of its cultural treasures from abroad, further enhancing the significance of this latest find.
The archaeological dig was a collaborative project between the Apsara National Authority and the China-Cambodia Government Team for Safeguarding Angkor, demonstrating the international cooperation and commitment to preserving the rich history of the Angkor region.
Following the discovery, the team carefully documented the positions of the statues before removing them for cleaning and restoration.
The ultimate goal is to return the artifacts to their original locations, ensuring that they remain integral parts of the Angkor World Heritage Site’s captivating landscape.
This remarkable discovery not only adds to the growing understanding of the Khmer Empire’s architectural and artistic achievements but also serves as a testament to the continued efforts to safeguard Cambodia’s cultural heritage for present and future generations to appreciate.
