Ta Keo is a famous Hindu temple in Angkor, Cambodia, which is dedicated to Shiva. It takes the form of renowned Temple mountain style and it may be the first temple to be constructed entirely with sandstones in the history of Khmer. It was built by Jayavarman in 1000 AD. It was once referred to as “Hemagiri “, which means the mountain of golden peaks. This temple was abandoned uncompleted, as a thunderbolt hit it and that event was considered as a warning sign of evil things. This temple worked as a cult center till the end of 13th century.

 

 

Ta Keo was built in a temple mountain form, which is a symbolic representation of Mt. Meru, with five towers. The towers are arranged in a quincunx pattern (a geometric pattern to denote a shape having five points). The uppermost level of this pyramid consists of partly covered terraces. It is surrounded by a moat, which helps to indicate the oceans surrounding Mount Meru. Lack of exterior embellishments and carvings does not affect the massive appearance of this temple.

 

The causeway that leads to the eastern entrance of Ta Keo is 500 meters long. The wall of the first terrace was made up of sandstone on laterite basis. There are two galleries and their roofs were believed to be made up of wood and tiles. The balustraded windows illuminate the galleries.

 

The second terrace has a gopura that has three independent passages. The inner enclosure of the second terrace has windows only toward interior. It has no doors at all and it is the finest example of Khmer gallery. There are two buildings situated next to the eastern side of the second terrace. You can also see two little libraries made up of sandstone, which are open to the west. They have false windows too. The inscriptions on the door jambs of the eastern gopuras make reference to the donations made to the temple.

 

The temple was constructed carefully and the systematic cutting and placing of huge blocks of stones stand as an evidence for it. Despite the absence of molding and ornamentation, it remains perfect. The frontons that were reconstructed on the ground depict the sheer style of ornamental decoration. The upper platform is in square plan and has the towers in unfinished form. They open to the four cardinal points. The corner towers are dominated by the central tower, which was constructed wonderfully. It is raised above the other towers and comprises of porches and pediments. The interior of the central tower is not decorated. You can see the fragments of lingas and pedestals in and around the towers.

 

Ta Keo would have one of the exquisite temples at Angkor, if it had been completed. Anyhow, it is worth to visit it. In fact, its simplicity makes it different from other monuments in Angkor. The architectural style of this temple is a great example for the growth of good taste among people lived in that period. As you need to climb on the steps to enter the temple, it is advisable to plan a visit in the morning.

 

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