Banteay Kdei
Banteay Kdei is located southeast of Ta Prohm and denotes ‘A Citadel of Chambers.’ The temple dates back to mid 12th century and was erected during the reign of Jayavarman VII. Built in Bayon style of architecture, Banteay Kdei is designed on the lines of Preah Khan and Ta Prohm. The main structure is enclosed within two enclosure walls and has two concentric galleries. The temple may be reached through the east gopura of Ta Prohm. It was earlier known as Kuti, the name which is also mentioned in the Sdok Kak Thom. The walls surrounding the temple are made from laterite stones. The temple shows a large number of Bayon style sculptures.
On the east side of the temple is a Srah Srang or “pool of ablutions.” The pool was dug during 10th century, under the reign of Rajendraverman. The pond was meant to be used by the king and his wives. Banteay Kdei has many distinct features such as the roof supported by free-standing pillars and the central pillars fortified with temporary laterite stone block pillars. These pillars are adorned with the carvings of Buddha. The complex comes with a rectangular courtyard known as “the hall of the dancing girls.” It is situated to the east side of the temple. The central sanctuary of the temple still shows the remnants of the wooden ceiling. There are also two libraries which open to the west direction in the courtyards located on the right and left side of the causeway.
On the east side of the temple is a Srah Srang or “pool of ablutions.” The pool was dug during 10th century, under the reign of Rajendraverman. The pond was meant to be used by the king and his wives. Banteay Kdei has many distinct features such as the roof supported by free-standing pillars and the central pillars fortified with temporary laterite stone block pillars. These pillars are adorned with the carvings of Buddha. The complex comes with a rectangular courtyard known as “the hall of the dancing girls.” It is situated to the east side of the temple. The central sanctuary of the temple still shows the remnants of the wooden ceiling. There are also two libraries which open to the west direction in the courtyards located on the right and left side of the causeway.
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