Ancient Statues Unearthed at Angkor Thom

Archaeologists in Cambodia have discovered 12 ancient sandstone statues, known as 'door guardians', at the Angkor World Heritage Site near Siem Reap, specifically near the north gate of the Royal Palace at Angkor Thom. These statues, dating back to the 11th century, were found buried up to 4.5 feet deep and vary in height from about 39 to 43 inches. Each statue is unique, featuring distinctive facial hair ornaments, and is believed to exemplify the Khneang Style, characteristic of the Khmer Empire's construction period. The archaeological dig, a collaboration between the Apsara National Authority and the China-Cambodia Government Team, aims to clean, restore, and eventually return these statues to their original locations around the gate. Angkor Thom, the last capital of the Khmer Empire, is part of the larger Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists annually. This significant find adds to the historical richness of Angkor Thom, which includes the famed Angkor Wat temple.