Before Angkor, the Chenla Kingdom built a sprawling forest capital of brick and stone.

Countries & Cities · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Deep in the Cambodian forest lies Sambor Prei Kuk, a vast 1,000-acre complex of 150 Hindu temples. Established as the capital Isanapura in the 7th century, this Pre-Angkorian site predates the rise of the famous Angkor empire, serving as a sophisticated royal sanctuary that still guards secrets of early Khmer history.

Sambor Prei Kuk, known historically as Isanapura, was the central royal sanctuary of the Chenla Kingdom. Established by King Isanavarman I, who reigned from 616 to 637 AD, the site served as a political and religious hub. The complex is divided into three distinct clusters: the northern and southern groups, dating to the 7th century, and a central group constructed later in the 9th century. The architecture is defined by its use of brick and sandstone, featuring iconic octagonal towers, shiva lingams, and intricate lion sculptures that once adorned the temples.

The site offers a window into the artistic and political reach of the Chenla Kingdom. Inscriptions found at the location, including one dated 13 September 627 AD, suggest Isanavarman I held significant power, styling himself as the King of Kings over Suvarnabhumi. The architectural motifs, such as the jutting leaf and various animal sculptures, reveal connections to broader regional influences, including South Indian design elements. These structures were not merely aesthetic; they were centers of worship dedicated to Shiva, particularly through the main temple, Prasat Sambor.

The history of the site is marked by both grandeur and tragedy. Following the death of King Jayavarman I in the early 8th century, the kingdom fractured, eventually giving way to the rise of Angkor. In the modern era, the site suffered from the turmoil of the 1970s, when US bombing campaigns and Khmer Rouge guerrilla activity left the area scarred by craters and landmines. While the mines were cleared by 2008, the site remains a fragile testament to a lost era. It was officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 8 July 2017, ensuring its preservation for future study.

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