Cambodia Temple Guide

Takeo Temple

Takeo Temple is a pyramid of five levels reaching a total height of 40m - the first two forms the base of two enclosing courtyards, one surrounded by a simple wall and the other by a gallery, while the last three, through proportional reduction are a massive artificial plinth for the quincunx of sanctuaries. Takeo was also the first temple which was built with the biggest blocks of sandstone in Angkor time. This temple was dedicated to Shiva. This temple construction has never been finished and it has very few carvings as the king was murdered by Suryavarman I who was his uncle.

The upper platform is square and almost entirely occupied by the quincunx of towers in their unfinished form. These open to the four cardinal points by projecting vestibules. The corner towers are set on plinths and are dominated by the central tower set on an elevated base with the development of its porticoes and frontons adding to its grandeur. Fragments of pedestals and of lingas are found both in and around the towers.

Originally, the access to the monument was from the east across a moat by means of a paved causeway, preceded by lions in the style of the Bayon. Some 500m further to the east is the bank of the Eastern Baray. The external enclosure wall forms a rectangle of 120m by 100m and is in sandstone on a laterite base. The second terrace dominates the first with an imposing moulded laterite base and four axial sandstone gopuras. From the courtyard, standing in front of the three tiers that form the 14m high central pyramid, one is left with a powerful impression.

Since Takeo temple was not finished, it clearly shows as that the ancient Khmer people put blocks of stone one upon the others as a form of the temple, and then they carved and decorated the temple later.

The original name of this temple was Hemasringagiri which means a Golden Peak Mountain. In early 11th century, king Suryavarman I built some more part of the temple and renamed it as Jagisvara Pandita.

The main entrance of Takeo faces to the east. Its walkway measures 50m long with many columns on both sides. The moat surrounding Takeo measures 225m by 195m. The foundation of this temple measures 122m by 106m.