APSARA Authority Begins Archaeological Excavation of West Causeway Bridge at Bakong Temple Ahead of Restoration

The APSARA Authority is currently conducting archaeological excavations along the west causeway bridge of Bakong Temple, a significant step before the commencement of its restoration and aesthetic enhancement project. This investigation aims to gather technical data and assess the overall structural condition of the bridge. Mr. Saray Kimhuol, Head of the Roluos Area Conservation Team of the Department of Conservation of Monuments and Archaeology, stated that the west causeway bridge of Bakong Temple measures 70 meters in length, 12 meters in width, and 4 meters in height. Before initiating the actual restoration work, the team must first undertake archaeological excavations to fully understand the original structure and to recover fragments of laterite blocks and Naga (serpent) sculptures that have collapsed and are buried within the causeway. The structure of this causeway bridge has suffered severe damage after more than 1,000 years of existence. The laterite retaining walls on both sides have nearly completely collapsed. Furthermore, most of the Naga sculptures lining the bridge have also disappeared from their original locations. The primary factors contributing to this damage are attributed to the pervasive roots of trees and soil erosion caused by rainfall during each monsoon season. Dr. Chea Socheat, an archaeologist and the person in charge of the excavation work at this site, emphasized that there is no historical record of archaeological research or restoration having been conducted on the west causeway bridge of Bakong Temple. Therefore, the current excavation is of utmost importance for collecting comprehensive data in accordance with the recommendations and technical standards of the International Coordinating Committee for the Protection and Development of Historic Sites of Angkor and the Sambor Prei Kuk zone. The working team has prepared an action plan and excavation techniques, initially identifying four excavation points: the northeast, southeast, southwest, and northwest corners. Subsequently, excavation will continue at the central and western parts of the bridge. The objectives of this excavation are threefold: 1. To study the foundation structure of the causeway, the thickness of the laterite retaining walls, and the soil compaction techniques used in the bridge's construction. 2. To examine the structural relationship between the causeway and the bridge's descent stairs, as well as the different stages of construction. 3. To investigate the upper part of the causeway, determining whether it was paved with sandstone, laterite, or simply compacted earth, as clear traces are currently absent. Finally, to search for and recover fragments of laterite blocks and Naga sculptures, along with two Garuda sculptures (which once stood on either side of the Naga's tail at the eastern end of the bridge, with only their pedestals remaining), for reassembly and return to their original locations. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local