As Cambodia’s famous historical sites like Unesco-protected Angkor Wat thrive, others are neglected, with tourism industry the biggest loser

via South China Morning Post, 21 Fenruary 2022: The article talks about Srok Chek, an archaeological site outside of Phnom Penh which is part of the Choeung Ek circular earthwork site.

While the Unesco World Heritage Sites of Angkor Wat, Sambor Prei Kuk and Preah Vihear receive global attention as tourist destinations and lavish grants from international donors for preservation, and prompt pride among Cambodians for their architectural splendour, the fate of lesser-known sites is precarious.

Nevertheless, the destruction of historical buildings and sites became such an issue – and raised such a public outcry on social media – that in October 2021, Prime Minister Hun Sen recommended that “the cultural, historical, ancient and heritage buildings currently under demolition be stopped so that they will be preserved”, the Phnom Penh Post reported.

“Cambodia has a long-standing record for its efforts on cultural conservation, and [these recommendations] will further strengthen the balance between urban growth and sustainable development, and … promote the universal respect for cultural rights for all through the restoration and preservation of cultural heritage,” noted the Unesco Cambodia office in a press release at the time.

Source: As Cambodia’s famous historical sites like Unesco-protected Angkor Wat thrive, others are neglected, with tourism industry the biggest loser | South China Morning Post