Preah Vihear Temple

Background of the Issue

Preah Vihear Temple: Preah Vihear Temple recently came into focus after India called for its protection amid renewed Thailand–Cambodia border clashes.
India emphasized safeguarding cultural heritage during periods of military tension, aligning with international norms on heritage preservation.

The statement reflects India’s consistent position that historical and religious sites must be protected irrespective of geopolitical disputes.
This issue also highlights how heritage sites can become vulnerable during border conflicts.

Location and Strategic Importance

Preah Vihear Temple is located in northern Cambodia, close to the Thailand–Cambodia border.
The temple stands atop the Dângrêk Mountains, giving it high strategic and symbolic significance.

Due to its elevated position and border proximity, the area has witnessed repeated tensions between the two countries.
Control over access routes, rather than ownership of the temple itself, has often triggered confrontations.

Static GK fact: The Dângrêk mountain range forms a natural boundary between Cambodia and Thailand.

Religious and Architectural Significance

The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, reflecting the deep influence of Shaivism in the Khmer Empire.
Its design follows the classical Khmer architectural style, aligned along a north–south axis rather than the common east–west orientation.

The complex includes sanctuaries, stairways, causeways, and gopuras carved with intricate stone reliefs.
The architecture symbolises Mount Kailasa, the mythical abode of Lord Shiva.

Static GK Tip: Most major Khmer temples were inspired by Indian temple architecture and Hindu cosmology.

Historical Evolution

Construction of Preah Vihear Temple began during the reign of King Yashovarman I (889–910 CE).
It was later expanded and completed under King Suryavarman II (1113–1150 CE) of the Khmer dynasty.

Suryavarman II is also credited with constructing Angkor Wat, another iconic Khmer monument.
The temple served as an important religious centre linking sacred geography and royal authority.

International Legal Dimension

The ownership dispute reached the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
In 1962, the ICJ ruled that the temple belongs to Cambodia, based on colonial-era maps.

However, disagreements over the surrounding territory persisted.
In 2013, the ICJ reaffirmed Cambodia’s sovereignty over the temple and directed cooperation on border management.

Static GK fact: ICJ judgments are binding only on the parties involved but carry strong international legitimacy.

UNESCO World Heritage Status

Preah Vihear Temple was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.
The listing recognized its outstanding universal value, architectural brilliance, and cultural significance.

However, UNESCO recognition also intensified border tensions due to competing national sentiments.
This underscores how heritage conservation can intersect with regional geopolitics.

India’s Stand and Cultural Diplomacy

India’s call for protection reflects its broader commitment to cultural heritage preservation.
India has historically supported restoration projects across Southeast Asia as part of its cultural diplomacy.

The statement also aligns with India’s civilizational links with the Khmer heritage.
Such positions enhance India’s soft power in the Indo-Pacific region.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Preah Vihear Temple: