The first mountain temple known as Prasat Bakong was first constructed by the rulers of the Khmer Empire at Angkor, and once served as the official state temple for the time. An excellent remnant of ancient Cambodian culture, the temple is a treasure trove of information, as it served as a site of cultural, architectural, and artistic exchange of knowledge.
History of Prasat Bakong
After the first King of Cambodia declared sovereignty in AD 802, his descendants created Prasat Bakong in stages, each adding in his own way to the status as the state temple as the years passed. As the 12th and 13th centuries rolled by, this had long changed, as the various capitals of Cambodia changed.
Design and Layout
The temple mountain was constructed of sandstone, and in its heyday, covered in ornate carvings throughout the temple. Sadly, little evidence remains, but the area’s architecture ensures that it remains of the most highly sought-after Siem Reap attractions today. There are still many decorative functions and towers that can be explored, which adds to the activity.
Notable Structures
The moats and Naga bridges are notable even within the temple layout, as their construction hints at a much larger design and culture that represents the inhabitants of the time. Continuing further into the area reveals the Five-Stepped Pyramid within the enclosure, a fascinating structure built in honour of the religious beliefs of the time.
Location
The Bakong Temple is located around 15km outside of Siem Reap, making it a very viable excursion for those staying in properties with relative proximity, such as FCC Angkor by Avani. Make sure to also check out other nearby attractions, such as the Bakong Village and Commune Halls, for glimpses into daily life and ideas of more Cambodian architecture.
