Pre Rup Temple

The utilization of grey sandstone, which is less resilient than the stone commonly employed in the construction of temples during that era, has resulted in an accelerated deterioration of the weathered structure. Although the site is gradually succumbing to decay, visitors can still traverse the extensive galleries and libraries—characteristic elements of 10th-century architecture that have not been replicated in temples constructed after the completion of Pre Rup.

Tourists can observe lion statues that stand sentinel, along with intricately carved lintels, doorways, and colonettes, all adorned with decorative lime mortar work. The architect Kavindrari-mathana designed gopuras, or cross-shaped openings, in each wall, each featuring three doorways. Additional structures were erected during the reign of Jayavarman V.

At the heart of the central enclosure lies the famed stone ‘cistern,’ believed to have served as the base for a bronze statue of Nandi, rather than for cremation purposes, which was a misconception that arose in later periods.

The symmetry of the city’s square layout is accentuated by a square-based pyramid at its center, comprising three tiers and reaching a height of 12 meters. The lower tier is encircled by 12 small shrines, while the upper tier is adorned with five towers—one at each corner and one centrally located. A two-tiered platform supports this central tower, which, despite its crumbling state, remains impressive in scale and resilience. Observant visitors may notice false doors, while the only authentic door is located on the eastern side of the tower, flanked by intricately carved deities.