Estimated Construction Order of the Major Shrines of Sambor Prei Kuk Based on an Analysis of Bricks

Analysis of brick composition and size at the Temple Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk reveals a more complex construction timeline for its major shrines than previously assumed. The study, which examined 59 well-preserved brick structures in the archaeological site of ancient Ishanapura (capital of the Chenla Dynasty), identified distinct groups corresponding to different construction stages. This challenges earlier dating based on epigraphy and decorative styles, suggesting that individual shrines within temple complexes were built through a nuanced, multi-phase process rather than as simple, sequential additions.

Shimoda, I., Uchida, E., & Tsuda, K. (2019). Estimated Construction Order of the Major Shrines of Sambor Prei Kuk Based on an Analysis of Bricks. Heritage, 2(3), 1941–1959. https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage2030118