UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Sambor Prei Kuk
Cambodia

Sambor Prei Kuk

Pre-Angkorian temple complex in Cambodia

Location

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Historical Context

About

Sambor Prei Kuk, also known as Isanapura, is an important Pre-Angkorian archaeological site located in Kampong Thom Province, Cambodia. Established as the capital of the Chenla Kingdom during the reign of Isanavarman I in the early 7th century CE, the site features a collection of architectural structures including Hindu temples such as Prasat Sambor. These temples embody the architectural style of the Pre-Angkorian period, characterized by brick and sandstone construction. The site contains inscriptions in both Sanskrit and Khmer, and is rich in symbolic Shaivism features such as lingams and yonis. Despite suffering damage from both natural decay and conflict-related activities in the 20th century, Sambor Prei Kuk remains a significant testament to early Khmer architectural and cultural development.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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FileCambodge-Sambor.JPG
FileOne_of_many_temples_in_Sambor_Prei_Kuk.jpg
FilePrasat_Boram_Cambodia_en_2014.jpg
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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Isanapura Capital Established

616 CE

Prasat Sambor Constructed

627 CE

Chenla Conquests

after 656 CE

Kingdom Turmoil Begins

start of 8th century CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Water Management Features

Reservoirs
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesAltars
category

Artistic and Decorative Features

InscriptionsStatues
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Sub-tropical forests
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Reference

Details

Country

Cambodia

Coordinates

12.87° N, 105.04° E