Archaeologists in Cambodia recently reported the discovery of twelve sandstone statues at the Angkor World Heritage Site, near Siem Reap. These sculptures, identified as “door guardians,” were found close to the north gate of Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, and are believed to date back to the 11th century. The statues, buried approximately 4.5 feet underground, each measure between 39 and 43 inches tall. Despite centuries of burial, many of the statues display remarkable preservation, with intricate facial hair and stylized features reflecting the Khneang Style, which aligns with Angkor Thom’s construction period. This significant discovery was announced by the Apsara National Authority, which manages the historic site, marking a key contribution to understanding Cambodia’s rich heritage.

This excavation is part of an ongoing collaboration between the Apsara Authority and the China-Cambodia Government Team for Safeguarding Angkor, dedicated to protecting Cambodia’s invaluable patrimony. After recording each statue’s exact position, the team carefully removed them for restoration, intending to return the artifacts to their original locations to enhance Angkor’s cultural appeal. Covering 400 square kilometers, the Angkor Archaeological Park, which includes the renowned Angkor Wat, attracts numerous global visitors each year. Cambodia has also increased efforts to repatriate artifacts from international museums. However, local relocation projects near Angkor to preserve the site have attracted international attention, with the U.N.’s World Heritage Committee recently suggesting expert monitoring for these developments.