Eternal Splendour Revived: APSARA Authority’s Restoration of Preah Khan Temple

• 22 August 2023
• Local News
• 1490 Views

The APSARA Authority has embarked on the second phase of the meticulous restoration of Preah Khan temple while preserving the ancient architectural style. Building upon the triumphant completion of the initial phase in October 2022, this endeavor reflects Cambodia’s enduring commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts unveiled their plan in an authoritative publication released on 15 August 2023.

The driving force behind this restoration lies in the steadfast dedication to fortify the temple’s weathered facets, ensuring the depiction of an illustrious tapestry of history retains its original glory.

This ambitious restoration project is intended to be completed by year’s end. Nestled on the western banks of the Baray Chey Tadak dam, this restoration of the eastern realms of Preah Khan Temple extends across 15.20 meters by 15.20 meters, presenting a renewal of the temple’s architectural opulence.

Mr Chea Sarith, an archaeologist and the guiding light of this transformative journey, unveiled the temple’s eastern countenance. Embellished with a rectangular footprint, the eastern quadrant stands divided into three ethereal parts. The Eastern facet resonates with a meticulously planned square layout, its dimensions spanning 15.20 meters on each side. Five majestic tiers beckon, adorned with a cascade of stairs that testify to the architectural ingenuity of the era. The inception of this endeavor was propelled by the quest to unearth and celebrate the temple’s historical evolution. A medley of archival documents, archaeological excavations, meticulous surveys, recorded accounts, and captivating imagery was harnessed to encapsulate the temple’s preservation status prior to the restoration, setting the stage for a tangible juxtaposition with its renewed magnificence post-restoration.

Elaborating on the meticulous restoration methodology, Mr. Chea Sarith reaffirmed the temple’s journey toward the renaissance. Drawing inspiration from traditional methodologies deeply etched in history, the restoration blends repair, fortification, and complete refurbishment. The dedicated team’s indefatigable efforts have borne fruits, with 30%- 40% of the restoration already completed. A stunning interplay of architecture graces the horizon as the northern staircase converges harmoniously with the first floor, cascading onwards to the second level.

Meanwhile, the eastern staircase embarks on its transformative odyssey, poised to unveil its rejuvenated splendor with meticulous restoration efforts already 50% complete. Four enchanting staircases stand testament to architectural prowess, with the promise of the fifth staircase and the first and second floors shrouded in anticipation.

In 2022, in the first phase of repair, experts repaired the central structure with a length of 21.60 meters by 21.60 meters and the structure of the stairs to the temple.

• Urbanization and Architect