"We're basically running a glorified maintenance program. We're not prepared to falsify history"
- one of the former employee of World Monument Fund in restoration of Preah Khan. Some believed that extensive restoration work would involved guesswork and prefer to respect the ruined nature of the temple.
The next temple - Preah Khan means 'The Sacred Sword'; situated few meters from the North Gate of Angkor Thom.
"So, Fuaz. Do you still remember of the battle between the Khmer and the Cham?" "Hmm ... yes. The one that King Jayavarman VII lead the Khmer to victory against the Cham - right?" I replied. "Lucky you still remember it. If not you can't really appreciate this site." "This temple was built on that historic event where once again the Khmer able to win the battle and freed their country from the invader Cham."explained Dara.
From left : garuda and lion weighting the once Buddha image - all have been carved out when the new King embraced Hindu as the state religion; the many doors led to the center sanctuary - the door gets smaller towards the center as a sign the devotees to lower their head when they meet God.
From left : garuda and lion weighting the once Buddha image - all have been carved out when the new King embraced Hindu as the state religion; the many doors led to the center sanctuary - the door gets smaller towards the center as a sign the devotees to lower their head when they meet God.
From left : the central tower; it is believed that the temple once full of precious and beautiful stone that will light the interior part of the temple - all this has gone thanks to the treasure hunter!
The double-storey structured that was believed where the sacred sword kept during the reign of the King Jayavarman VII.
From left : Sacred Sword site from the temple; platform where the King meets his official.
"But what is the connection of the name of this temple with the event? - Surely sacred sword should mean something - right?"
"OK. The old name of this temple was Nagara Jayasri - means holy city of victory; commemorated for the event. There some legend said that one of the sword that used by the King was kept here thus the name derived." said Dara.
"Later you will see one of the unique features of this temple - a double-storey structure that has never seen in other Angkorian site." add Dara. "It is believed that the sword kept in that structure on the upper level of it."
"OK. The old name of this temple was Nagara Jayasri - means holy city of victory; commemorated for the event. There some legend said that one of the sword that used by the King was kept here thus the name derived." said Dara.
"Later you will see one of the unique features of this temple - a double-storey structure that has never seen in other Angkorian site." add Dara. "It is believed that the sword kept in that structure on the upper level of it."
Kopok tree believed hundred years of life have been root the temple - one of the marvelous site of Preah Khan.Guess this temple will continue served as the time machine - where we can relook back on what happen on the past. It still keep secrets that yet haven't fold yet - awaiting for the new generation to discover it.
From left : it is believe that the King will sit here when he meets his people - well who's the King now!; Apsara dancers carving of the Dancing Hall - where the dancers dance for their God and King.
Some scholars believed that this temple built for many religions and beliefs. These are supposed to be some of the idols. But Dara has different point of view. He believed that these are the fallen warriors that helps in the battle with the Chams. Maybe its served for both - the fallen warrior that has been idolized by the locals.
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