Sambor Prei Kuk, Kampong Thom

Sambor Prei Kuk in Kampong Thom is a collection of 7th century temple ruins in a fairly remote jungled area. It was part of an ancient capital city of Chenla known as Isanapura which was occupied between the 7th and 8th century by King Isanavarman, and represents some of the oldest temples in the country. It is also unique for the large number of flying palaces depicted on the carvings as well as the use of the octagon shape in the design of the sanctuaries.

Flying palaces

Flying palaces are the homes of gods which are borne on the backs of winged horses, garuda and other mythical creatures. They often feature the deities looking out of windows and doors, and are found on the external walls of the Sambor brick towers. Ravaged by time, the Sambor flying palaces have been worn and weathered but are unique features found here and other temples of this era.

There are over 130 brick temples, which are largely unrestored. Over time, many of them have collapsed while some have remained remarkably intact. The temple interiors are in surprisingly good condition, given that they predate Angkor Wat by some 600 years.

Three Main Temple Groupings

There are three main groups of temples - Prasat Sambor, Prasat Yeay Peau and Prasat Tao, called the Lion temple for the two elaborately carved Chenla lions standing guard.

Prasat Sambor is the main temple and is dedicated to Shiva. Several of its carvings have remained in good condition and there are some fertility symbols around its central tower that may have been inscribed during a later period.

Locked in Nature

One of the most interesting temples within Sambor Prei Kuk is Prasat Chrey which is in a stranglehold with a fig tree. There are old Khmer inscriptions on the door jamb, as well as a false door on its north face. Large tree roots have split the rocks of the eastern gate but are simultaneously holding the structure intact in a tight lock.