Phimeanakas, Cambodia
Copyright © Timothy Tye. Stock Photo for Sale
Phimeanakas
Cambodia
Phimeanakas is a steep and elaborate temple mountain within the Royal Palace compound of Angkor Thom. This part of Angkor has seen continuous, uninterrupted use from the 11th century until the end of the Angkor civilization in the 16th century. No doubt it underwent numerous renovations during this long period, and archaeological excavations continued to unveil new discoveries.
Phimeanakas was built around the late 10th to the early 11th centuries, during the reigns of King Jayavarman V and King Udayadityavarman I. It is made of laterite, and measures 35 meters by 28 meters. It comprises three tiers of 12 meters each. Steep steps leads up on all four sides. The steps on the western face is the best preserved, and is the recommended one to climb. Flanking the steps are guardian lions while at the corner of each tier are stone elephants.
Phimeanakas was mentioned in the chronicles of Zhou Daguan, the Chinese ambassador who visited Angkor in the 13th century. He wrote of a Khmer legend, that the king would have to spend every night with a woman who is can turn into a nine-headed naga in order to retain his power over the kingdom. As this legend is not found within the Khmer's inscription, it is likely that Zhou Daguan heard about it from the Chinese population living in Angkor at that time.
