SIEM REAP — For a few decades in the 10th century, Koh Ker was the capital city of the Khmer empire. Its story has intrigued researchers and history enthusiasts for decades. Known mainly for an enormous temple in the shape of a pyramid standing on its grounds, Koh Ker was inscribed on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites on Sept. 17, 2023.

Watch the interview on YouTube below:

Located about 370 kilometers north of Phnom Penh, Koh Ker was the seat of power of the Khmer empire for slightly more than two decades during which the entire Khmer Empire spanned approximately 6 centuries.

Its smaller land area of around 90 square kilometers compared to Angkor Archeological Park’s 401 square kilometers makes it simpler for researchers to study.

Unlike Angkor Park, which was modified by kings over centuries, Koh Ker was constructed during the reign of King Jayavarman IV, which began in 921, and only served as the empire’s capital during his reign and the reign of his son Harshavarman II, which ended in 944. King Rajendravarman who succeeded him moved the capital back to Angkor.

French archaeologist and historian Eric Bourdonneau has spent years researching Cambodia’s history and especially Koh Ker. Among other elements, he has studied the statue of the 10-arm Dancing Shiva, which is enormous and has been greatly damaged over the centuries. 

In this first part of an interview, Bourdonneau spoke of the uniqueness of Koh Ker and how research conducted at the site is helping people understand Cambodia’s past and this chapter of the country’s history.

Bourdonneau is director of the École française d'Extrême-Orient (EFEO or French School of Asian Studies) in Siem Reap.