Baphuon
Located in Angkor Thom, this temple was built in the 11th century. This three tiered temple was designated as the state temple of Udayadityavarman II and is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva. However, the bas reliefs of the temple depict the carvings of several other gods as well such as Vishnu. It is a single sanctuary temple mountain and is believed to be a symbolical representation of Mount Meru.
Baphuon temple is surrounded by a wall which measure 425 by 125 metres. Like most of the other temples, the wall is made of sandstone. The rectangular base of the temple has five levels. However, in contrast to other such platforms, all the five levels are approximately the same size. The temple is the first structure to depict stone galleries with a central tower.
The top level of the temple is in rather dilapidated condition. It earlier had a central sanctuary consisting of two wings. It is believed that the central tower of the temple may have been made of gilded wood. However, no such surmise can be made now. One of the most remarkable features of the temple is a statue of a reclining Buddha on the west side of the temple. The statue is on the second level and measure 9 meter tall with 70 meter length. The temple was built on the sand filled land which was unable to provide proper foundation to the structure. There had been several attempts to restore and protect the temple. The efforts finally culminated in April, 2011 with the inauguration ceremony held in July, 2011.
Baphuon temple is surrounded by a wall which measure 425 by 125 metres. Like most of the other temples, the wall is made of sandstone. The rectangular base of the temple has five levels. However, in contrast to other such platforms, all the five levels are approximately the same size. The temple is the first structure to depict stone galleries with a central tower.
The top level of the temple is in rather dilapidated condition. It earlier had a central sanctuary consisting of two wings. It is believed that the central tower of the temple may have been made of gilded wood. However, no such surmise can be made now. One of the most remarkable features of the temple is a statue of a reclining Buddha on the west side of the temple. The statue is on the second level and measure 9 meter tall with 70 meter length. The temple was built on the sand filled land which was unable to provide proper foundation to the structure. There had been several attempts to restore and protect the temple. The efforts finally culminated in April, 2011 with the inauguration ceremony held in July, 2011.
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