Preah Ko: The Sacred Bull Temple

Preah Ko, meaning "Sacred Bull," is a 9th-century Hindu temple constructed in 879 A.D. by King Indravarman I. Located 15 kilometers southeast of Siem Reap in the Roluos area, it was the first major temple built in the ancient city of Hariharalaya. Dedicated to Shiva and the divinized ancestors of the king, Preah Ko provides insight into the early Khmer empire and its religious practices.The temple complex consists of six brick towers arranged in two rows on a sandstone platform. The towers face east, with the front central tower being the tallest. These towers are dedicated to three forefathers of Indravarman I and their respective wives. The intricate carvings on the lintels and doorposts depict Hindu deities and scenes from Khmer mythology. Three sandstone statues of Nandi, the sacred bull and mount of Shiva, stand in front of the central towers, giving the temple its name.Preah Ko is known for its beautiful carvings and the use of brick as a primary construction material, a departure from laterite and sandstone more common in the Angkor period. Despite some damage over time, much of the original plasterwork and sandstone reliefs have been preserved, offering a glimpse into the artistry of the era. Visiting Preah Ko offers a serene and less crowded experience compared to the more popular temples of Angkor, allowing visitors to appreciate the temple's unique charm and historical significance.