Radiocarbon Ages and Stratigraphy in the City Area of the Sambor Prei Kuk Pre‑Angkor Archaeological Site Cambodia
摘要
The Sambor Prei Kuk archaeological site in central Cambodia is known as one of the primary cultural and political centers of the Pre-Angkor Period in Indochina. The main part of the site is situated on a sandy upland along the Stung Sen River floodplain and is divided into the city area and temple area by the O Krou Ke River (creek). The temple area comprises the three major walled complexes of Prasat Sambor, Prasat Tao, and Prasat Yeai Pouen and a number of Hindu brick towers. The city area is demarcated by moats, which are found in the west of temple area. This archaeological site is considered the ancient capital city of Chenla called Isanapura and constructed by King Isanavarman I in the early seventh century, as described in the Chinese ancient chronicle of Sui-shu. However, investigations thus far have mainly targeted temple complexes, whereas clear evidence exhibiting the prosperity or chronological framework of the archaeological site has been scarcely reported. In February 2012, we discovered a 1500 m long section in the city area that was revealed during road construction. Subsequently, recording of the stratigraphy, analysis of cultural deposits, and survey of the western city moat were conducted. Radiocarbon (AMS 14 C) dates of the layer containing structures were from the fifth to seventh centuries and the fourteenth century (road cut section, Trenches B and H), while the moat floor dated to the sixth century (moat section, Site 1). These dates suggest that the construction of Sambor Prei Kuk dates to the Pre-Angkor period. Further investigations are required to confirm the foundation age of the city area and to reveal the relationship between Sambor Prei Kuk and ancient Isanapura.