The great Hindu monuments of Cambodia have long been targets of looting and trafficking.
10th–12th century C.E.
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The Bayon: A temple with many faces
While the mystery of the smiling face-towers continue to perplex scholars and visitors, it is agreed that the Bayon Temple was intended to represent Mt. Meru on Earth.
Angkor Thom, The Great City
Angkor Thom is an urban planning marvel and the name of one of the most impressive royal cities of Angkor Period Cambodia.
Figure of Shiva, Khmer Empire
This image is of the major Hindu deity Shiva, who can be identified by the third eye in his forehead.
The Looting of Cambodian Antiquities
In the 1970s, thieves defaced the temples at Koh Ker. Numerous stone figures lost their feet—and their meaning.
The Scourge of Looting: Trafficking Antiquities, from Temple to Museum
When conflict erupts in an archaeologically rich country, illegal antiquities flood the market. What can be done?
Sotheby’s Returns Looted 10th Century Statue to Cambodia
What happens when an auction house knowingly lists looted art? Government intervention and a lawsuit halt the sale.
Angkor Wat
This temple remains the largest religious monument in the world. Once a Hindu shrine, it is now used by Buddhists.
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