Angkor Temple Guide: #9 Banteay Srey
Banteay Srey is temple built in the 10th century by King Rajendravarman and dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. It was consecrated on April 22nd 967AD. It was constructed at a time when the Khmer Empire was gaining power and territory. The work was started by a Brahmin counsellor the instruction of Rajendravarman. The construction was completed under Jayavarman V. It is in the Angkor region near a hill called Phnom Dei. It is 25km (16 miles) from the main temples of Angkor Wat and Angkor Thom.
Banteay Srei’s name translates as “Citadel of Women” and its thought this relates to the subjects of the carvings rather than a general dedication. Built from red sandstone it is miniature in scale and bears a strong resembles to a scale model of Angkor Wat. The light in the early mornings and late afternoons, lends itself particularly well to photography. It is often described a a jewel of Khmer art.
The temple was originally, called Tribhuvanamaheśvara, meaning“ great lord of the threefold world” This is in efferent to the Shiavite Linga at the heart of its religious imagery. It was discovered in 1914 by French archaeologists.The temple contains some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art ever uncovered. The walls are completely covered with some of the most beautiful, intricate carvings seen in any of the Angkorian temples.
Sadly, Banteay Srey has been vandalised badly.has been ravaged by pilfering and vandalism. Some statues that were damaged were replaced by concrete copies. These too were then attacked. Unbelievably a statue of Shiva was removed to the National Museum in Phnom Penh for safekeeping, only to be attacked in the museum itself.
Top Tips
The temple is a pleasant 38km (24 mile) ride from Angkor Wat. The road passes through villages and rice paddies. Combine this with Banteay Prei and Banteay Samre.
This temple closes to the public at 5.00pm.
Although similar in style to Angkor Wat this gets a lot fewer visitor. Worth a morning visit to find some peace and calm.
Previously published:
1: Ak Yom https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-1-ak-yom
2: Angkor Thom https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-2-angkor-thom
3: Angkor Wat https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-3-angkor-wat
4: Bakong https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-4-bakong
5: Baksei Chamrong https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-5-baksei-chamrong
6: Banteay Kdei https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-6-banteay-kdei
7: Banteay Prei https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-7-banteay-prei
8: Banteay Samre https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/angkor-temple-guide-8-banteay-samre
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A lot of good history and knowledge here about Angkor Wat, one of the most beautiful ancient sites in the world.
Thanks. I used to live in Siem Reap and spent plenty of time exploring. I love the place. I've followed you.
upvoted&followed :)
Thanks my friend, followed back.