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PHNOM BAKHENG

Arresting the ravages of nature, war, and tourism on one of Angkor’s oldest temples

PHNOM BAKHENG
Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap, Cambodia
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BACKGROUND

Phnom Bakheng is one of Angkor’s oldest temples. It was built as a state temple between the late 9th and early 10th centuries, when King Yasovarman constructed it as the centerpiece of his new capital, Yasodharapura, later absorbed into Angkor. The first mountain-style temple built there, Phnom Bakheng represents Mount Meru, home of the Hindu gods. Despite its architectural and historical significance, the temple is popular today mainly for its panoramic view of Angkor Wat, particularly at sunset.

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HOW WE HELPED

In 2004, international and local experts began surveying, analyzing, and planning for the conservation of the site, funded by a grant of $550,000 from the U.S. State Department. Emergency measures were also taken to protect the site from further damage. (...)

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WHY IT MATTERS

Phnom Bakheng is one of the greatest examples of Khmer architecture, but more than many other Khmer temples, its popularity has put it in jeopardy. Though the rapid rise in tourism has brought welcome economic growth to Cambodia, wear from constant foot traffic is threatening the temple’s stability. (...)

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    VIDEOS
    World Monuments FundPhnom Bakheng Restoration Project
    September, 2012

    Angkor Archaeological Park in northwestern Cambodia is home to the magnificent centuries-old temples of the mighty Khmer empire. One of the most-visited and oldest of these is the temple of Phnom Bakheng, perched atop a solitary hill at the heart of Angkor. Built as a state temple between the late ninth and early tenth centuries by King Yasovarman, Phnom Bakheng represents Mount Meru, home of the Hindu gods.

    World Monuments FundWorld Monuments Fund: 2010 Priority Projects
    October, 2010

    An overview of several projects which represent our priorities in 2010 and reflect the varied approaches we take to our five core program areas: Advocacy, Education & Training, Cultural Legacy, Capacity Building and Disaster Recovery. Narrated by WMF's Lisa Ackerman, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

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    Angkor Wat
    Wallpaper: Angkor Wat
    Angkor Wat at Sunset
    Wallpaper: Angkor Wat at Sunset