The APSARA National Authority and the German Apsara Conservation Project (GACP) hosted a workshop on temple care on February 27. ANA
The APSARA National Authority (ANA), in collaboration with the German Apsara Conservation Project (GACP), conducted a joint presentation on February 27 regarding the history, management and tourism of Cologne Cathedral and Freiburg Minster in Germany.
The collaborative presentation was led by architectural experts from both cathedrals.
ANA spokesman Long Kosal, who attended the event, found it highly beneficial for Cambodian specialists in stone conservation, sculpture and tourism.
"Following the event, officials, staff and stakeholders from the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gained a deeper understanding of the crucial tasks involved in maintaining, protecting and conserving these irreplaceable cultural treasures" he said.
In a related press release, the ANA said that architect Peter Fussenich delivered a concise history of Cologne Cathedral, exploring its art, architecture and stained glass.
During his presentation, he highlighted the collaborative efforts of the conservation workshop, where experts from diverse fields concentrate on protection, preservation and preventive measures.
“Cologne Cathedral has transformed into a popular tourist destination, attracting over 6.5 million visitors annually. Erected in 1248, it stands at a height of 157 meters and was listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 1996,” the ANA noted in its statement.
Anne Christine Brehm, director of the Freiburg Minster workshop, one of Germany's oldest stonemasonry operations, presented his conservation experiences to the workshop. The group oversaw the construction of the romanesque cathedral and remains involved in its maintenance today.
She noted that the work of both Cologne Cathedral and Freiburg Minster workshops was recognised on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2020.
For the past 30 years, the International Coordinating Committee for Angkor (ICC-Angkor) has played a vital role in the restoration, preservation and sustainable development of Cambodia's ancient temples. Their efforts include structural reinforcement, management and conservation.
