Looting of archeological sites in Cambodia

Worldwide, protection of archeological sites is more the exception than the rule. This excerpt is from a report on Cambodia in today's Art Daily:

"Almost all sites of antiquity and temples far from towns are being destroyed," said Michel Trenet, the undersecretary of state at Cambodia´s culture and fine arts ministry. "Naturally, the priority for us is to protect the Angkor sites and then think about the others. But we don´t have enough guards and people are not motivated to protect their heritage. Cambodia is becoming a cultural desert."

Phoum Snay is a classic example. On its discovery, almost three years ago, the site was thought to have been a mass grave for victims of the Khmer Rouge . . .

Then, when iron-age artefacts, including weapons, jewellery, pots and trinkets, started appearing, the site was reassessed as the burial ground of an ancient army. The researchers moved in, and digging started. Thousands of items were found.

Yet little was done to secure the area and antiques traders - people mainly from neighbouring Thailand, say villagers, and seeking to sell Khmer treasures abroad - now have virtual free rein. Their success is shown by the regularity with which Khmer artefacts appear at auction around the world. At any one time, dozens of Khmer "treasures" are on offer on the eBay auction website.

Posted by David on July 31, 2003 9:31 AM