Laterite quarry helps keep temples standing

• Published date: 10 March 2023
• Publication title: The Phnom Penh Post

Laterite stone is common throughout hot, wet tropical areas, and the Kingdom is no different. Typically a reddish colour due to its high iron content, it forms under the earth after prolonged weathering. Heavy rainfall and alternate wet and dry periods over centuries led to its formation.

This type of stone was employed by the ancient Khmer to build many famous temples, including Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk, Banteay Srei, Kampong Kdei Bridge and Eastern Mebon.

Laterite was used most commonly from the 6th century until the Angkorian period, in the 13th century.

Although no large temples are currently under construction, demand for laterite remains. It is generally used to repair temples, or to build and maintain pagoda walls. Where there is demand, there are suppliers.

Kuong Kin has been quarrying laterite for around 20 years, and supplies in to brokers.

His mine is located in Khvav commune's Chrey village of Siem Reap province's Chi Kraeng district.

Kin uses a heavy steel bar to dig out the stone. The physical demands of the heavy 10kg tool mean there are few others who are interested in the pursuit of laterite.

'It takes me about a week to dig one piece of laterite out. The tools...