The mysterious Ta Keo Temple is an interesting monument in Siem Reap and is the first temple to be built of sandstone after the Bakheng temple. This Khleang style structure stands on a hill top and is stark in its appearance with its imposing walls that are bare of excessive ornamentation and décor. For an unknown reason, the temple remains unfinished which adds to the mysterious aura that surrounds it.
Situated east of the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom, the temple is believed to be dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva, and is reminiscent of Mount Meru which is also believed to be the home of the Hindu gods. This rare temple has an inner enclosed gallery, and visitors are able to still view fragments of the temple décor and inscriptions that were made dating back to the year 1007.
The temple is styled in a pyramid like manner oriented towards the Eastern direction and consists of 5 levels, each unique with its own setting. The first two levels form an enclosure for the courtyards, of which one is surrounded by a plain wall and the other by a gallery which is too narrow to walk through. There are 2 terraces at the temple of which the second terrace with its molded laterite base and sandstone structures leaves one with a feeling of awe. The topmost platform stands majestically with its 5 protruding towers in their unfinished yet unique forms. This upper platform can be accessed from all 4 directions by flights of steps.
The temple remains a wondrous and mysterious site amid the other temples in the area due to its unfinished remains. A visit to this site is also ideal to view the ancient architecture of the place, as well as to take a peek into history.
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