Trapeang Chambak Temple

Located west of the Preah Khan of Kampong Svay complex and also recorded as Chambork Temple and Prasat Chambok, it’s an ancient temple that French researchers from the 1900s would label “Temple D’etape” which was akin to a stopping place along the ancient road that, in this case, led west to Beng Mealea. Whilst no inscriptions have been found, the site is attributed to the 12th century around the same time as Angkor Wat.

The site has a layout similar layout to other “Temple D’etape” featuring an outer wall enclosing two libraries that flank either side of a single central shrine with a hall (antarala/mandapa) that connects to the eastern gopura of the outer enclosure. Also, forming part of the south wall, this site features a false gopura, or annex building, that opens to the inner courtyard, plus, there is a very small gopura opening to the outside on the western wall.

The art style and execution in this era were quite refined and it certainly shows here, along with its ruinous charm. There are several interesting quirks to this site, for one, it features Apsara of Angkor Wat style, for another, the arched niches and their figures in the lintels above the doors of the central shrine, and also the large concaved niches on the internal walls of the central shrine.

Rodney Charles LHuillier

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