Chau Say Tevoda

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to walk through time? To step into a world that existed centuries ago, where ancient stones whisper secrets of a long-gone civilization? You are standing at the entrance of Chau Say Tevoda, a temple in Angkor, Cambodia. This temple, much like the others around it, reflects the Khmer Empire’s brilliance through intricate carvings and towering sandstone structures. Chau Say Tevoda tells a tale of dedication to both Shiva and Vishnu, the Hindu deities. It stands here as a testament to the religious syncretism that existed in this era. However, the temple’s story doesn’t stop there. Built in the mid-12th century, it also bears testament to the influence of Buddhism. There is evidence that during the reign of Dharanindravarman, the father of Jayavarman VII, Buddha images were incorporated into the temple. This blended devotion is a unique feature you will not find in many other temples here. You might not know that this temple has a hidden secret – it was partly built with stones salvaged from the Siem Reap River. The temple was damaged after years of neglect, and it was only in 2009, after a nine-year long restoration project spearheaded by China, that the temple saw visitors again. The restoration was a complex undertaking, involving the reconstruction of the temple using over 4,000 scattered elements. And today, you are able to walk through the restored halls, marvel at the intricate carvings, and imagine the echoes of the ancient past that still linger in the air.