Fall of Funan and Rise of Chenla

Around 550 CE, the maritime kingdom of Funan declined and was gradually absorbed by Chenla. Rudravarman, Funan's last king, had killed his brother to gain power, which may have prompted Bhavavarman I, likely a royal relative, to challenge Funan's authority. Bhavavarman I and his brother Chitrasena (later Mahendravarman) established Chenla's independence and expanded from their northern territory into the Mekong River valley. By approximately 616-628 CE, when Isanavarman I established his capital at Ishanapura, Chenla had absorbed Funan's territories. This transition shifted the region's political focus from coastal maritime trade to inland agricultural production.