Preah Vihear, September 16 (Daily Kiran) : The Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cambodia, has sustained severe damage during conflicts with Thailand in 2025. Recent assessments reveal evidence of extensive destruction within the temple complex, including bullet marks found in hundreds of locations.
This historic site, dating back to the 11th century, has been a focal point of tension between Cambodia and Thailand. Reports indicate that during two significant fighting periods last year, the temple was heavily impacted. The first conflict occurred from July 24 to 28, affecting 142 locations, while the second, from December 7 to 27, resulted in damage to an additional 420 sites.
Kong Puthikar, the director-general of the National Authority for Preah Vihear, stated that artillery shells ranging from 81mm to 155mm, as well as aerial bombs, struck key structures and pathways within the temple. The restoration efforts, supported by India and the United States, have also faced setbacks due to the ongoing conflict.
The damage includes shattered sandstone walls, dislodged historical inscriptions, and harm to the temple’s intricate stone carvings. Experts have documented over 65,738 fragments of broken stones and artistic remnants. Additionally, the ancient drainage system has been restored, and a comprehensive 3D digital documentation of the temple complex has been completed, aiding future preservation efforts.
On September 10, over 40 journalists from Cambodia and other countries were granted access to the temple site, marking the first media visit since the December conflict. However, the temple remains closed to tourists as safety measures are still being implemented.
Meanwhile, the Thai Joint Information Center has accused Cambodian forces of using areas around the Preah Vihear Temple for military purposes, a claim that Cambodia has firmly denied.
The Preah Vihear Temple was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008 and is recognized for its exceptional Khmer architecture and cultural significance. The disputes over the temple trace back to the early 20th century, culminating in a 1962 International Court of Justice ruling affirming Cambodia’s sovereignty over the site.
Concerns regarding the preservation of cultural heritage sites affected by armed conflict were highlighted during the 48th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in Busan, South Korea, in July. The committee emphasized the need to protect cultural heritage during times of war and prevent its destruction.
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