Indagare Tours: Conservation d’Angkor

The first archaeologists began trying to preserve the treasures of the Angkor temples in the late 19^th century and the work continues today, as it is impossible to keep watch over the vast temple complex, which covers hundreds of square miles. More than 5,000 of the most precious artifacts and statues are stored in this compound, which also houses the dormitories for resident archaeologists. While the Conservation d'Angkor is closed to the public, a few of the storerooms can be visited by special arrangement, and the experience is similar to being able to prowl in a museum warehouse. Shelves of museum-worthy Buddha heads, ancient ceramic pots and spectacular statues, some of which are covered in spider webs, have been gathered over the years. These are the most precious items from the temples stored for safe-keeping so it is best to visit after touring the temples when you better understand the context and also their significance. Indagare members can contact the Bookings Team to arrange.