ANGKOR: The Department of Conservation of the APSARA National Authority has completed the restoration project of the Western Gate of Banteay Kdei Temple. The restoration team was able to reassemble stones to their original design, recreating a stunning feature of the 12th century “Citadel of Monks,”

Archaeologist Neth Simon said that the restoration work was carried out in two phases. The first phase started in 2020 with the collection of study materials on the layout of the gate and the registration of stones scattered around the gate. The second phase started in 2022 to implement the project to restore and strengthen all the stonework from the foundation to the top. She added that there were many challenges during the reassembly of the stones because the ancient stones were often broken.

Due to age, nature, and human factors, the structures of the Western Gate were in a very dilapidated condition, with the central tower destroyed, leaving only two Brahma faces. With the restoration work complete, the experts expect that the Western Gate of Banteay Kdei will be strong and safe again for tourists to pass through and take beautiful pictures. The value of the ancient structure has been preserved as a legacy for the next generations.