Archaeologists restore gate of centuries-old temple in Cambodia's Angkor complex

PHNOM PENH, Feb. 6 (Xinhua) -- Archaeologists are undertaking the restoration of the deteriorated north gate of centuries-old East Mebon temple in Cambodia's famous Angkor Archaeological Park, the APSARA National Authority (ANA) said in a news release on Friday.

So Pot, an architect and archaeologist from the ANA's Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology, said the gate had been seriously damaged by natural and structural factors.

"The north gate was classified as a high-risk structure through a risk assessment map, requiring urgent intervention to prevent its collapse," he said.

He said the lower structure and foundation of the gate were made of laterite, while the upper section was built of brick.

"The restoration team is focusing on strengthening the laterite base by cleaning soil from stone joints and cracks and resealing them with mortar to prevent water infiltration," Pot said.

He added that stones in good condition are preserved, while severely damaged stones are replaced with new ones that match the original form and technique.

Pot said the restoration work began in late 2025 and is expected to be completed by April 2026.

"More than 50 percent of the restoration work has already been completed," he said.

East Mebon temple, a 10th-century mountain temple built during the reign of King Rajendravarman II, is one of the temples in the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park in northwest Cambodia's Siem Reap province. ■