MCOT English NewsWith Thailand and Cambodia seeking a peaceful solution to the lingering border dispute over the ancient Preah Vihear temple, other temples along their joint border might become issues, due to unclear demarcation between the two countries. Sdok Kok Thom temple in Sa Kaeo province is one of them.
Workers were refining each block of sandstone after it was brought down and rebuilt during renovation work. This method, requiring highly skilled craftsmen and specialists, was also used to restore the Pathenon in Greece.
Sdok Kok Thom temple covers an area of six acres. The stupa collapsed and the Fine Arts Department has been renovating it for 38 years on a limited budget. Now, it’s an outstanding attraction, drawing more tourists.
“Renovation work has to be done consistantly to keep records on each block of sand stone. Specialists have to work continuously for accuracy and smoothness of work,” said Anat Bumrungwong, Director, Fines Art Office 5.
Sdok Kok Thom was built in the 11th century, housing the phallus stone, as a symbol of worship to the Hindu god, Shiva. The temple was an area restricted for kings in the past. Outside the temple wall is a pond as big as a football field. Stone pillars are placed along the stone walkway at the temple pointing in the direction of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.
In 1935, the temple was registered as a national historical site. Two inscription stones inscribing the royal line-up to the throne of the ancient Khmer empire were found here. They stood the test of time and offer a reference into history. The lintel featuring the God Vishnu in reclining position was found here.
The temple is considered an important temple from the past, in contrast to its name “Sdok Kok Thom”, which means desolate areas full of reed.
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