A team of archaeologists recently discovered 900-year-old historic gate guardian statues in Angkor Thom, Cambodia.

The APSARA National Authority of Cambodia announced the discovery in a statement, noting: “Experts believe that these gate guardian statues illustrate the Khneang style, consistent with the palace construction period of the 11th century. »

The iconic statue features unique facial hair ornaments that vary in size and shape, with some measuring 39 inches and others extending up to 43 inches.

Angkor Thom is considered one of the largest cities in the pre-modern world.

Some of these statues were found well preserved, while others were cracked and destroyed.

This is not the only discovery made by archaeologists at Angkor Thom.

Earlier, they discovered another sandstone gate guardian statue at Banteay Prei Temple, a Buddhist temple also located in the Angkor Archaeological Park.

Due to the size and topography of Angkor Archaeological Park, researchers continue to discover artifacts and structures that shed light on Khmer civilization.

The researchers said after the discovery that “due to the size and topography of the Angkor Archaeological Park, researchers continue to unearth artifacts and structures that shed light on the Khmer civilization.”