Amid the ruins at the entrance of an 800-year-old temple, Cambodian scientists have discovered unexpected treasures.
According to the APSARA National Authority – the agency managing the Angkor Archaeological Park in Cambodia – the treasures recently uncovered include six sandstone statues.
Images provided by APSARA show that the artifacts are exceptionally well-preserved despite being buried under the rubble.
The ruins of Ta Prohm Temple, home to many exquisite artifacts worthy of being treasures – (Photo: APSARA NATIONAL AUTHORITY).
According to Heritage Daily, these treasures were discovered accidentally during the restoration of the Ta Prohm temple complex in the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Ta Prohm, also known as Rajavihara, was established by King Jayavarman VII, the first king to embrace Buddhism in the Khmer Empire.
During his 37-year reign, King Jayavarman VII initiated an extensive construction program that included numerous public infrastructures and monuments.
The Ta Prohm temple was built as a Mahayana Buddhist monastery at the end of the 12th century and the beginning of the 13th century. The structure features the typical “flat” Khmer temple architecture, distinct from pyramid-shaped temples.
This temple was abandoned in the 15th century following the collapse of the Khmer Empire.
With its unique architecture and being enveloped by strange tree roots after centuries of neglect, Ta Prohm has become a famous monument and served as the backdrop for the hit film Lara Croft: Tomb Raider released in 2001.
Recently, the Cambodian government decided to restore this ruin. Surprisingly, beneath the rubble of the southern gateway of the ancient temple, six precious sandstone statues were discovered.
One of the treasures revealed from the recent excavation – (Photo: APSARA NATIONAL AUTHORITY).
Two of the statues depict the Buddha being sheltered by a naga (serpent), while another statue represents Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva.
Two other statues are damaged, while the remaining artifact is a remarkable relief featuring numerous intricately carved small figures.
The statues from the Angkor Archaeological Park are always valuable relics not only because of their ancient age but also due to their unique design and exquisite craftsmanship.
