Temple of Nara Cairn
Nara Cairn
Moche (100–800 CE)·Moche·🇰🇭 Preah Vihear, Cambodia
About
About Temple of Nara Cairn
Temple of Nara Cairn in Preah Vihear, Cambodia is a Moche (100–800 CE) temple complex attributed to Moche culture. Systematically investigated through magnetometry and coring, it presents a central mound with workshop zone. Construction employs cyclopean blocks and demonstrates long-distance exchange. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Moche temple-complex with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Ritual use and symbolic landscape
- 02Astronomical alignment and orientation
Theories
- 01Centralized storage and redistribution (Cunliffe)
- 02Defensive refuge and tribal capital
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. 227 CE
- Period
- Moche (100–800 CE)
- Culture
- Moche
- Purpose
- Defensive and administrative
- Excavation
- Excavation ongoing
c. 227 CE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 354 CE
Major enlargement and wall circuit added
c. 627 CE
Peak occupation and regional prominence
2006
Scientific excavation and conservation
On the ground
Structures & features
12.4938° N · 103.8693° E · 1018 m · 3 mapped features
Stela Alignment
necropolisAncillary workshop associated with main monument
12.4927° N · 103.8684° EOutlier Panel
shrineHydraulic feature — reservoir
12.4909° N · 103.8685° EGateway
ditchBurial zone — shaft tombs
12.4908° N · 103.8677° E