Banteay Srei, Angkor Complex, Siem Reap

Banteay Srei has low walls and is one of the smallest complexes in Angkor but stands apart from the other temples for the delicacy and detail of its carvings and the wonderfully decorated pediments. A complex of low-rise structures of pink standstone, a tough high quality mineral, its carvings are wonderfully preserved and so delicate that some consider it the jewel in the Angkor crown.

Citadel of Women

Known as the “Citadel of Women” as much for the delicacy of its carvings as for its diminutive structure, the 10th century temple is one of the few not commissioned by a King. Its founder is thought to be a Brahman counselor to King Rajendravarman. The square complex has entrances at the east and west and is made up of three temples honoring Vishnu, Shiva and Vishnu.

Thought to be in use till the 14h century before the decline of the Angkor kings, it was discovered in 1914 and is the subject of a celebrated case of art theft. Frenchman, Andre Malraux was discovered stealing 4 devatas which were later returned’ ironically he later became France’s Culture Minister. It is also notable for being the first important Angkor monument restored through anastolysis, a process where an archeological find is carefully restored after careful study and measurement and piece by piece assembly of original material. Successful restoration prompted a similar project at the Bayon.

Stone Deities and Myths

Within the inner enclosure is a sanctuary with an entrance chamber and three towers. Temple buffs will love the beautiful filigree work and carvings of male and female deities which decorats the three towers. Almost every inch of the inner buildings is carved, these being the most extravagantly decorated buildings. Devatas holding fragile lotus flowers look out from niches in the temple walls, tales from the epic Ramayana are retold in stone walls, and gods are shown in conflict with each other or interfering in the lives of men. Around 32km from Siem Reap, the best light for viewing Banteay Srei is between 10 am-2pm, but it is less crowded in the afternoon.