Cambodia Restores Ancient West Mebon Temple

The newly restored West Mebon temple at Cambodia's Angkor archaeological complex is set to be inaugurated by French President Emmanuel Macron and Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni on November 15 and 16, during a summit of French-speaking nations in Phnom Penh.

The nearly 1,000-year-old temple is the latest conservation project supported by France, which began restoration work at Angkor in the early 20th century. The site is known for the discovery of a colossal bronze statue of the reclining Hindu god Vishnu in 1936.

The restoration work involves architects, archaeologists and other specialists studying Cambodia's history and preserving its cultural heritage. The project also includes training younger Cambodian conservation workers to maintain and restore the country's ancient temples.