Siem Reap: Experts continue restoration work on the south-west wall of the 2nd platform of the Phnom Bakheng temple

Experts are currently working to restore the south-west wall of the second platform of the Phnom Bakheng temple, an important historical site.

This work is being carried out in collaboration with the World Monument Fund in the United States, under the direction of the APSARA National Authority

Mr Chiv Phearum, the architect involved in the project, reports that almost 90% of the wall is damaged, particularly at the corners where the stone has been almost completely eroded. The deterioration is attributed to natural ageing and environmental factors, such as tree roots seeping into the walls and rainwater run-off exacerbating the erosion. The restoration work is designed to deal with these problems as effectively as possible, and it is planned to complete the repairs by the end of 2024.

The restoration initiative began in August 2019 and has already made significant progress

Repairs to four sanctuaries have been completed, and work on five staircases is around 90% complete. In addition, around 30% of the floor of the third and fourth platforms has been restored. Around 80% of the walls on the first, third and fourth platforms have also been repaired. According to the ANA, this ongoing restoration underlines the commitment to preserving Cambodia's cultural heritage.

According to the ANA, this ongoing restoration underlines Cambodia's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage

Text : Yi Sotha — ANA

Photos : Phouk Chea/Chiv Phearum/Van Va