Rare 12th Century Sandstone Turtle Sculpture Unearthed at Cambodia's Bayon Temple

Archaeologists have made an astonishing find at the Bayon Temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia – a rare sandstone turtle sculpture dating back to the 12th century reign of King Jayavarman VII. The intricately crafted sculpture, measuring 57cm long, 43cm wide, and 21cm deep, was found beneath a former pond at the ancient temple complex.

The unexpected find is causing experts to re-evaluate their understanding of the temple's layout and historical narrative. "This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the temple's structural composition," said lead archaeologist Dr. Sothea Nim of the APSARA National Authority, which oversees the preservation of Cambodia's cultural heritage sites.

The turtle sculpture's unearthing sheds new light on the craftsmanship and artistic prowess of the temple's builders during the height of the Khmer Empire. "The level of detail and intricacy in the carving is truly remarkable, a testament to the skill of the artisans who created it nearly 900 years ago," Dr. Nim added.

Why this matters: The discovery of the sandstone turtle sculpture at Bayon Temple is a significant archaeological find that deepens our understanding of Cambodia's rich cultural heritage. It highlights the ongoing importance of preservation efforts and the potential for new discoveries to reshape historical narratives.

The Bayon Temple, known for its iconic smiling face towers, is one of the most popular tourist attractions within the Angkor Archaeological Park. Ongoing excavations in the region continue to unravel the mysteries of the Khmer Empire's legacy. As stated by Dr. Nim, "This find is a touching reminder of a proud civilization's enduring imprint on history and the importance of safeguarding these cultural treasures for future generations."

Key Takeaways

• Archaeologists found rare 12th-century sandstone turtle sculpture at Bayon Temple.
• Discovery challenges assumptions about temple's layout and historical narrative.
• Sculpture showcases remarkable craftsmanship and artistry of Khmer Empire builders.
• Find deepens understanding of Cambodia's rich cultural heritage and preservation efforts.
• Ongoing excavations continue to unravel mysteries of Khmer Empire's legacy.