Prasat Preah Khan: The Royal Sword

Prasat Preah Khan, meaning 'Royal Sword,' is a sprawling temple complex located northeast of Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia. Constructed in the late 12th century by King Jayavarman VII, it was dedicated to his father and served as a multifaceted center. The temple was built on the site of Jayavarman VII's victory over the invading Chams in 1191. More than just a temple, Preah Khan functioned as a royal city, a Buddhist monastery housing over 1,000 monks, and a university with teachers, students, and libraries. It was the heart of a substantial organization, employing nearly 100,000 officials and servants. The complex spans over 56 hectares and is enclosed by a rectangular moat and fortified walls adorned with carvings of garudas, divine eagle-like beings. Inside, you'll discover a labyrinth of vaulted corridors, courtyards, shrines, and halls. The temple's layout reflects a blend of Hindu and Buddhist influences. Key features include impressive gateways (gopuras) with intricate stone carvings, a Hall of Dancers, and a two-story pavilion. Unlike some other Angkor temples, Preah Khan is moderately preserved, with trees and vegetation adding to its atmospheric charm. The temple is open to visitors daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.