Banteay Srei, often referred to as the “Citadel of Women” or the “Citadel of Beauty,” is a 10th-century Cambodian temple dedicated to Shiva. Located approximately 40 km from town, Banteay Srei stands out for its intricate carvings and unique pink sandstone construction. The temple was consecrated on April 22, 967 CE, and is unique among Angkorian temples as it was not commissioned by a king. Instead, it was built by two courtiers, Yajnavaraha and Vishnukumara, who were counselors to King Rajendravarman II. This fact alone sets Banteay Srei apart, highlighting the influence and capabilities of non-royal patrons in ancient Khmer society. The temple’s modern name, “Banteay Srei,” translates to “Citadel of Women,” a name believed to be inspired by the delicate beauty of its carvings, which some legends attribute to the work of women. The temple’s original name, “Tribhuvanamaheshvara,” means “Great Lord of the Threefold World,” referring to the god Shiva1.

Banteay Samré, also known as the “Citadel of the Samré”, is a temple at Angkor, Cambodia, located 400 meters to the east of the East Baray. Built during the reign of Suryavarman II and Yasovarman II in the early 12th century, Banteay Samré is a Hindu temple in the Angkor Wat style. It is named after the Samré, an ancient people of Indochina. Banteay Samré’s single ogival tower immediately reflects the Angkor Wat style. Its design resembles other temples in the region, such as Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda. The temple was excellently restored by Maurice Glaize from 1936 until 1944. The temple consists of a single tower, connected by an antarala to a mandapa. Two libraries flank this ensemble, surrounded by two concentric gallery enclosures. A 200-meter-long raised causeway leads to Banteay Samré from the east, suggesting it once enclosed a reasonable-sized town. Visiting Banteay Samré offers a glimpse into the architectural legacy of the Khmer civilization.

Pre Rup Temple is a Hindu temple at Angkor, kingdom of Cambodia. It was built as the state temple of Khmer king Rajendravarman and dedicated in 961 or early 962. Pre Rup is a temple mountain constructed using a combination of brick, laterite, and sandstone. Its extensive laterite and brick give it a pleasing reddish tone, especially during early morning and late afternoon sunlight. The temple’s name, “Pre Rup”, means “turn the body.” Cambodians believe that funerals were conducted at the temple, with the ashes of the body ritually rotated in different directions during the service. Pre Rup features long galleries along each side, a characteristic of 10th-century architecture. The final squared pyramid rises in three steep tiers to a 35-meter-square platform at the summit. Five towers are arranged in a quincunx at the top. Visitors can explore the unique design, climb to the summit for panoramic views, and appreciate the historical significance of Pre Rup Temple.

Preah Khan, translated as the “Royal Sword” or the “Holy Sword”, is a temple at Angkor, Cambodia, built in the 12th century for King Jayavarman VII to honor his father. Preah Khan was constructed on the site of King Jayavarman VII’s victory over the invading Chams in 1191. The modern name, meaning “holy sword”, is derived from the original—Nagara Jayasri (holy city of victory). The temple may have previously been occupied by the royal palaces of Yasovarman II and Tribhuvanadityavarman. Preah Khan features a flat design with successive rectangular galleries around a Buddhist sanctuary. Preah Khan served as a substantial organization, with almost 100,000 officials and servants. Despite its decline after the 15th century, certain sections continued to be used for religious or cultural activities. Visiting Preah Khan offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Khmer Empire and its enduring spiritual significance.