“Angkor is not orchestral; it is monumental. It is an epic poem which makes its effect, like the Odyssey and like Paradise Lost, by the grandeur of its structure as well as by the beauty of the details. An epic in rectangular forms imposed upon the Cambodian jungle.”
- Arnold J Toynbee (1889 - 1975), a British historian
- Arnold J Toynbee (1889 - 1975), a British historian
Ta KeoSituated at the western end of the East Barray - is the Ta Keo. I'm not sure what's the meaning of this name. Some scholars even stated that this temple was planned to be called - the Crystal Palace but because of certain event the construction of this temple stopped and it abandoned.
From left : the art works still preserved even it's abandoned - the motif of flowers crafted onto the wall of Ta Keo; clear sky helps a lot in exploring the Angkorian temple.
Legend say that King Jayavarman V planned to built this temple dedicated to Hindu god, Shiva. However while the works progress - suddenly the temple was strucked by lightning thus the temple was left due to bad omen believed from that event.
From left : inner wall that surround the central santuary; every temple have their unique architecture - this is the temple's library
Still this temple in Khleang style - looks marvelous with old Khmer decoration. The temple is oriented toward the east. Enclosed by two walls, it is built in a zigurrat style. Its top level is reached by steps from the four cardinal directions. At that level, five towers are arranged with one at each of four corners and one at the center.
From left : ruins of Ta Keo - awaiting funds to rebuild back this temple; central tower.
Ta Keo Ruins
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