Location of a pre-Angkor capital city in relation to geomorphological features of lower reach of the Stung Sen River, central Cambodia

Research reveals that the pre-Angkor capital city of Chenla, located at the Sambor Prei Kuk archaeological site in central Cambodia, was strategically positioned on upland II adjacent to a port town near the Stung Sen River. This location minimized monsoonal flood risk while maximizing accessibility and water transport feasibility, demonstrating an adaptation to the region's highly variable dry and wet seasons. The study analyzed geomorphological features of the lower reach of the river, including meander scroll zones, sediment accumulation rates (0.6 mm/year over 4600 years), and floodplain/lake plain divisions to assess flood risk and upland accessibility. These findings highlight the sophisticated understanding of environmental dynamics by ancient inhabitants.

Nagumo, N., Sugai, T., & Kubo, S. (2010). Location of a pre-Angkor capital city in relation to geomorphological features of lower reach of the Stung Sen River, central Cambodia. Geodinamica Acta, 23(5-6), 255–266. https://doi.org/10.3166/ga.23.255-266