A brick temple at Phnom Krom, a historic hilltop temple complex in central Cambodia, has undergone a full restoration, returning it to its original splendour. The work, carried out by experts from the APSARA National Authority, was completed late last year after months of careful conservation efforts.
The restored temple, situated on the north side of Phnom Krom Temple, measures approximately six metres in width and over seven metres in height. Prior to the restoration, the structure was in a state of severe deterioration. “The temple, previously in a state of considerable disrepair, has been meticulously restored to its former glory, thanks to the dedicated work of our experts,” explained Ros Visoth from the Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology at APSARA.
Photo courtesy APSARA National Authority
Much of the decay resulted from prolonged exposure to the elements, with plant growth and water infiltration worsening the damage. “During the rainy season, water infiltrated through the aged brick seams, exacerbated by weather conditions and plant overgrowth that damaged the bricks,” Visoth noted. The restoration team focused on salvaging as many original bricks as possible while replacing damaged sections with carefully cut new bricks. The walls were reconstructed to align with the temple’s original layout, ensuring historical accuracy in the restoration.
Now fully stabilised, the temple stands as a striking feature of Phnom Krom, which is known not only for its medieval architecture but also for its stunning views of Tonle Sap Lake and the surrounding countryside. The site attracts visitors seeking both cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over golden rice fields and nearby villages.
Photo courtesy APSARA National Authority
Phnom Krom itself is an important part of Cambodia’s medieval history, built during the late 9th to early 10th century under King Yasovarman I (889–910). The temple complex, dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, is one of several hilltop shrines constructed in the region during the period. The recent restoration marks another step in preserving Cambodia’s heritage for future generations.
Top Image: Photo by Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
A brick temple at Phnom Krom, a historic hilltop temple complex in central Cambodia, has undergone a full restoration, returning it to its original splendour. The work, carried out by experts from the APSARA National Authority, was completed late last year after months of careful conservation efforts.
The restored temple, situated on the north side of Phnom Krom Temple, measures approximately six metres in width and over seven metres in height. Prior to the restoration, the structure was in a state of severe deterioration. “The temple, previously in a state of considerable disrepair, has been meticulously restored to its former glory, thanks to the dedicated work of our experts,” explained Ros Visoth from the Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology at APSARA.
Much of the decay resulted from prolonged exposure to the elements, with plant growth and water infiltration worsening the damage. “During the rainy season, water infiltrated through the aged brick seams, exacerbated by weather conditions and plant overgrowth that damaged the bricks,” Visoth noted. The restoration team focused on salvaging as many original bricks as possible while replacing damaged sections with carefully cut new bricks. The walls were reconstructed to align with the temple’s original layout, ensuring historical accuracy in the restoration.
Now fully stabilised, the temple stands as a striking feature of Phnom Krom, which is known not only for its medieval architecture but also for its stunning views of Tonle Sap Lake and the surrounding countryside. The site attracts visitors seeking both cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over golden rice fields and nearby villages.
Phnom Krom itself is an important part of Cambodia’s medieval history, built during the late 9th to early 10th century under King Yasovarman I (889–910). The temple complex, dedicated to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, is one of several hilltop shrines constructed in the region during the period. The recent restoration marks another step in preserving Cambodia’s heritage for future generations.
Top Image: Photo by Stefan Fussan / Wikimedia Commons
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