Angkor's Bakong Temple Undergoes Restoration of Three Severely Damaged Brick Towers

In Siem Reap, Cambodia, experts from the Apsara National Authority have begun restoration and reinforcement work on brick towers numbered 12, 13, and 14, located in the northeast corner of Bakong Temple's second enclosure. These towers have suffered severe damage, with towers 12 and 14 collapsing down to their foundations. Tower 13, while retaining its form from the base to the summit, requires urgent repair to its facade. This initiative aims to ensure the preservation of these temples, which are over 1000 years old. Saray Kimhuol, Chief of the Roluos Area Conservation Department at the Apsara National Authority, stated that the expert team commenced this restoration project in May 2026, with an expected completion by the end of the same year. The damage to the three brick towers has accumulated over decades, attributed to aging, natural phenomena, and a prolonged lack of maintenance. The southern tower (No. 12) and the northern tower (No. 14) have lost their structural integrity from summit to base. The central tower (No. 13), though mostly intact, has experienced significant brick collapse on its facade, with its door structure falling and cracks appearing on its three walls. According to Mr. Kimhuol, the restoration efforts include clearing debris from both the interior and exterior of the three towers. Work involves reinforcing the foundations, door frames, and stair structures of each tower. Weakened structural elements will be strengthened, and waterproofing plaster will be applied. Measures will also be taken to prevent insect infestation and the growth of vegetation on the temple surfaces. For the central tower, fallen door frames, pediments, and pillars that were scattered will be reassembled in their original positions. Upon completion of the restoration, additional steel bracing will be installed at the upper section of tower 13 to further enhance its stability.