PHNOM PENH, July 29 (Xinhua) -- A restoration team from the APSARA National Authority (ANA) is working to reinforce a deteriorating section of the laterite wall at Angkor Thom, located within the UNESCO-listed Angkor Archaeological Park in northwest Cambodia's Siem Reap province, said an ANA news release on Wednesday.

This photo taken on December 18, 2025 shows tourists walking in front of the Angkor Thom south gate as they visit the Angkor complex in Siem Reap province. (File photo: AFP)

The project focuses on a 15-meter section of the wall on the southwest side of Angkor Thom's South Gate, the news release said, adding that the initiative began in April and is scheduled for completion by the end of 2026.

Mao Sokny, a technical officer with the ANA's Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archaeology, said that the centuries-old wall has suffered extensive damage from natural aging and environmental factors.

"So far, more than 45 percent of the project has been completed," Sokny said. "Achievements to date include strengthening the foundation, restoring a six-meter section of the wall, and rehabilitating approximately 15 meters of the staircase."

Built in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, Angkor Thom was the grand capital of the ancient Khmer Empire, according to the ANA.

Its enclosure wall extends about three kilometers on each side, stands approximately eight meters high, and is surrounded by a moat. The ancient city is accessed through five monumental gates.