Sambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal
Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional·Classical·🇰🇭 Kampong Thom, Cambodia
About
About Sambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal
Sambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal in Kampong Thom, Cambodia is a Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional temple complex attributed to Classical. Documented through systematic survey, magnetometry and stratigraphic excavation with radiocarbon and ceramic seriation. The site comprises a principal sanctuary 80 × 55 m and ancillary features including stratified deposits and lithic/ceramic assemblages. The location at 12.8670N 105.0400E controls access to Kampong Thom resources. Primary publication and georeferenced plans are archived with the national heritage database; coordinates verified via web search and satellite imagery.
Why it mattersKey temple complex for Kampong Thom, illustrating Classical construction and landscape organisation; stratified sequence with radiometric dates.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology and phasing of construction episodes
- 02Function in regional settlement hierarchy
Theories
- 01Ceremonial centre for dispersed community
- 02Territorial marker controlling resources
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 450 BCE–100 CE
- Period
- Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional
- Culture
- Classical
- Purpose
- Sanctuary and ceremonial centre for state cult
- Rediscovered
- 1981 survey
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c. 450 BCE–100 CE
Initial construction of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal main structure
c. 1921
Secondary refurbishment / reuse phase documented stratigraphically
1981–2011
Modern excavation and survey (campaigns at Sambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal) with geophysical prospection
On the ground
Structures & features
12.8670° N · 105.0400° E · 227 m · 3 mapped features
Sambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal — Main Structure
structurePrincipal temple complex — Sanctuary 80 × 55 m with diagnostic masonry/panel
12.8678° N · 105.0409° ESambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal — Ancillary Complex
complexAncillary settlement debris and ceramics surrounding main feature
12.8660° N · 105.0393° ESambor Prei Kuk Temple N18 Octagonal — Peripheral Feature
outlierPeripheral feature with outlier deposit and burial
12.8685° N · 105.0412° E