Apsara Authority Reopens Historic Building to Enhance Angkor Tourism & Research

• Sommana Yan
• 27 May 2025
• Local News
• 1542 Views

In a significant development for tourism and heritage conservation, the Apsara Authority has announced the reopening of an ancient building, over a century old, located near the Bayon Temple. This historic structure will now serve as a centre for research and education in Angkor’s conservation efforts.

HE Long Kosal, Deputy Director General of the Apsara Authority, revealed that this building originally functioned as a warehouse for the first conservation centre during the French colonial era. It played a crucial role as a workshop dedicated to the repair and restoration of ancient temples in the Angkor region.

Despite its historical importance, the building’s small size limited its capacity for large-scale conservation work, prompting the establishment of a new conservation centre in Traeng Village, located in Slakram Sangkat, Siem Reap city, opposite Wat Preah Indkoy.

“Reopening the first conservation centre is essential for educating future generations of Cambodians and visitors about the history and processes behind the restoration of our precious Angkorian heritage,” HE Long Kosal stated. “We aim to provide insights into the methods, tools, and techniques used in these vital conservation efforts.”

In addition to its educational role, the building will serve as a collection point for materials or personal items that tourists may lose or forget during their visits to the temple complex.

This announcement comes amidst a resurgence in tourism, as Cambodia welcomed nearly 2 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025—a 16% increase compared to the same period in 2024. HE Huot Hak, Minister of Tourism, highlighted this growth during a recent meeting focused on promoting tourism initiatives for the green season. (Read more)

The reopening of this historic building is expected to enhance the visitor experience at Angkor, providing valuable context and appreciation for one of the world’s most treasured cultural sites.

• Policy and Strategy
• Tourism and Travelling
• Historic