Preah Vihear Temple Complex

Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Art & Culture

Why in news?

India has expressed concerns over the damage caused to the Preah Vihear temple complex in the disputed border region between Cambodia and Thailand.

Temple of Preah Vihear – It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional Khmer architecture and dramatic cliff-top setting.
Location – On the edge of the Dangrek Mountains plateau of Cambodia, near the Thai border.
Dedication – The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, reflecting Hindu spiritual traditions.
Construction – It traces its origins in the 9^th century when a hermitage (secluded dwelling) was founded, but a major construction in the 11^th century.
Structure – A series of sanctuaries connected by pavements and staircases along an 800-metre axis.

Preah Vihear Temple

Preservation – Its remote location has helped keep the site remarkably well preserved.
Significance – It is an exceptional Khmer architecture, pure in plan and decoration and outstanding stone-carved ornamentation.
India’s engagement – Since 1986, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been working to conserve and restore Cambodia’s ancient Khmer temples.
Its projects include the restoration of Angkor Wat and Ta Prohm, and the work has now entered its third phase.
Khmer Temples – Cambodia is home to over 4,000 Khmer temples, which were built between the 9^th and 15^th centuries by Khmer Kings and Khmer people and influenced by both Hinduism and Buddhism.
The most prominent temples are located near Siem Reap in the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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