Envision a stepped pyramid rising majestically before you. This is Prasat Bakong in the heart of Prasat Bakong District Siem Reap.
Prasat Bakong District is home to this magnificent temple. It holds immense historical significance. The temple served as the state temple of King Indravarman I. He dedicated it to the Hindu god Shiva in 881 AD.
The construction of Prasat Bakong was a monumental undertaking. It’s a sandstone structure. It’s a replica of Mount Meru the sacred mountain in Hindu mythology. The five levels symbolize the five worlds of Hindu cosmology. Each level is adorned with intricate carvings. They depict mythical creatures like Nagas and Makaras. These carvings are incredibly well-preserved.
Prasat Bakong isn’t just a pyramid. It features two moats. They surround the temple. The outer moat encloses a series of brick towers. Many have collapsed over time. These contained statues of Vishnu Shiva and numerous lingas. The inner moat has paved causeways. Remarkably these are the earliest examples of Naga bridges in Angkorian architecture. Seven-headed Naga snakes adorned these bridges.
The inner enclosure houses the main pyramid. Eight brick towers surround it. Some have been restored. They initially contained figures of dvarapalas and devatas. The towers’ lintels boast exquisite decorations. They include depictions of Vishnu on Garuda warrior figures and more mythical creatures. Each tower has a real door facing east. The other three sides have false doors with lion-head shaped door knobs.
The central sanctuary tower has a fascinating history. It collapsed long ago. Maurice Glaize a conservator of Angkor rebuilt it in the late 1930s and early 1940s. He used the anastylosis method. He used the original materials as much as possible. The sanctuary likely held the main linga. The style of the decorations suggests it’s from a period much later than the rest of the temple.
Prasat Bakong’s legacy is profound. It stands as a testament to the Khmer Empire’s artistry. Its intricate carvings and unique architecture remain awe-inspiring. Its position in Prasat Bakong District highlights the area’s rich history. The temple is a captivating blend of religious symbolism and architectural skill. It truly deserves its place among Angkor’s most iconic landmarks.