Wat Chonloeng

Located on the contemporary monastery grounds are a group of three ancient temples. Two temples are in laterite and the third is a brick temple although only the doorframe remains standing.

The three temples are aligned on a north-south axis and all open to the east. As mentioned, only the doorframe of the brick temple remains standing and some of its base structure can be seen.

The central temple is entirely built in laterite bar its sandstone doorframe that is flanked by decorated octagonal columns and topped by a sandstone lintel with an unusual profile view of a character riding an elephant, albeit defaced, we could assume it to be Indra on Airvata.

The southern most temple is far more elaborate, it too is constructed mainly in laterite although it is complemented by heavily decorated sandstone pilasters and base molding, decorated sandstone door columns topped by sandstone lintels all around, sandstone false doors are used excepting the opening to the east. The remaining lintels are quite beautiful, especially the Churning of the Milk scene above the north door.

According to old photographs these laterite towers had brick superstructures. Around the site are several remains including sema stone bases, crown pieces, the pagoda, funerary stupa, and a pretty basin.

Rodney Charles LHuillier

Living in Asia for over a decade and now residing in beautiful Siem Reap - Contact via [email protected] - more..