Cambodia decries Thai shelling of Khmer temples
Composite photo shows Culture and Fine Arts Minister Phoeurng Sackona (L) and Ta Krabei Temple, which crumbled after it was struck by a mortar shell fired by the Thai army. Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Information
Synopsis: Built in the 11th century, Ta Krabei Temple has long been protected by Cambodian institutions and revered by local communities. It is among the protected ancient sites that have been targeted by Thailand’s military.
Culture and Fine Arts Minister Phoeurng Sackona has strongly condemned Thailand for destroying Cambodia’s ancient temples, referencing a curse inscribed in Khmer at the sites warning that anyone who harms them will endure “32 circles of hell until the end of the moon and sun.”
Her statement followed the destruction of Ta Krabei Temple, a national heritage site in Oddar Meanchey province, by the Thai military on December 10. The Preah Vihear Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has also faced renewed attacks.
Ta Krabei Temple, built in the 11th century during the reigns of Kings Suryavarman I and Udayadityavarman II, is in Phum Senmonorom 1, Kouk Khpos commune, Banteay Ampil district. For centuries, the site has been carefully safeguarded by Cambodian cultural institutions and deeply venerated by locals.
The ministry said Ta Krabei Temple suffered severe shelling on December 10, causing extensive structural damage despite numerous appeals to Thailand to spare the temples.
Thai forces also attacked Preah Vihear Temple, including the conservation building of the Cambodia-India joint restoration project and infrastructure within the temple complex.
Nine days after the Thai military launched a fresh offensive on Cambodian territory, heavy fire has killed and wounded civilians, destroyed property, and damaged Khmer heritage sites. Hundreds of thousands of Cambodians have fled the conflict zones.
On Monday night, the ministry hosted the cultural event “The 6th Night of Remembrance and the Cultural Foundation to Support Heroes and Refugees” at the Fine Arts Middle School to raise funds for those displaced by the attacks.
Sackona delivered a message emphasising the protection of Preah Vihear and Ta Krabei Temples.
“The invaders claim these ancient temples as theirs, yet who could raise their hands to destroy them? Anyone who destroys heritage sites considered works of the gods will face 32 circles of hell until the end of the moon and sun,” she said.
She urged Cambodians to unite and support the national leadership during the crisis and thanked philanthropists who have contributed to relief efforts.
-Khmer Times-
