Sandstone Guardian Statue Discovered in Cambodia’s Angkor Archaeological Park!

Archaeologists from the Apsara National Authority (ANA) recently made a significant discovery at the Banteay Prei temple in Cambodia's renowned Angkor Archaeological Park. They uncovered a centuries-old sandstone statue of a Dvarapala, a gate guardian, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Discovery of a Dvarapala Statue

The Dvarapala statue was found near the second gate of Banteay Prei, a temple built during the reign of King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th to early 13th century. The temple is one of many significant historical sites in the 401-square-kilometre UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park, located in Siem Reap province.

The statue was buried about 80 centimetres underground, likely a result of the gate’s upper structure collapsing over time. Archaeologist Chea Sarith from the ANA explained that the statue, crafted in the Bayon style, stands at approximately 1.6 metres tall but was found in a damaged condition. Despite being dislodged, the statue remains in relatively good condition, though it was discovered head down, broken into six pieces. The damage includes the neck, forearm, waist, and legs, with a missing piece of the staff it once held.

Photo Credit: ANA

Historical Significance of Banteay Prei

While Banteay Prei is not as well-known or frequently visited as other temples in Angkor, it holds great historical value. It is one of the many Buddhist temples commissioned by King Jayavarman VII, located near the more famous Preah Khan temple. This recent discovery adds to the temple’s historical allure, shedding light on the intricate craftsmanship and religious symbolism of the Bayon period.

Tourism and Revenue

Angkor Archaeological Park, home to Banteay Prei and many other ancient sites, continues to be a major attraction for international tourists. In the first seven months of 2024 alone, the park welcomed over half a million visitors, generating about $27.2 million from ticket sales. This underscores the enduring appeal and importance of Cambodia's cultural heritage.

With each new discovery, like the Dvarapala statue at Banteay Prei, the world gains deeper insights into Cambodia's ancient history, enhancing the significance of these treasured monuments.