AKP Phnom Penh, March 31, 2026 --

Archaeologists are conducted research on ancient human settlements at the Koh Ker temple complex in Preah Vihear province.

The study, carried out from Mar. 14 to 24, involves collaboration between the National Authority for Preah Vihear’s departments of research and conservation and Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Geo-Anthropology.

Researchers are using archaeological surveys and soil coring techniques to collect samples for analysis, including ceramics, charcoal, pollen, and soil layers, to determine the age and characteristics of past habitation.

The research aims to provide insights into ancient lifestyles, the development of Koh Ker as a former royal capital, settlement timelines, as well as past climate conditions and biodiversity.

Koh Ker was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Sept. 17, 2023. The site spans approximately 8,000 hectares and includes more than 70 temples, notably a large pyramid-like structure considered unique in Southeast Asia.

Koh Ker served as the capital of the Khmer Empire in the 10th century, over 1,000 years ago, during the reign of King Jayavarman IV.

Article in Khmer by Makara
Article in English by C. Nika