SIEM REAP: Visitors at the Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum will soon be able to view nearly 7,000 pieces of crystal and other artifacts found during an excavation at the Kandal Sras Srang Temple in 2020.

The permanent exhibition begins on January 16 and features 6956 pieces of purple amethyst, yellow citrine, and white quartz. In addition to the gem exhibit, several other artifacts found at the same site will be on display such as a sandstone turtle and metal relics.

Head of the exhibition team, Kun Phally, said that the permanent exhibition aims to encourage the public, researchers, and students to visit and learn about the artifacts and relics buried at the ancient temple as well as the history, culture, religion, and traditions of the Khmer Empire.

On the first Saturday of each month, the Preah Norodom Sihanouk-Angkor Museum is free to the international community, as a means to encourage more people to share in the museum experience.