952 AD Rajendravarman II Hindu (Shiva). At the center of the Eastern Baray and so originally only accessible by boat. A temple mountain in brick and laterite but with a three meter high platform carrying five towers arranged in a quincunx rather than a central tiered pyramid. The large foundation stele describes the dedication to the king’s parents. The east west axis of the temple aligns with the principal entry to the royal palace in Angkor Thon. Sandstone lintels are superbly detailed.
Mid-sun Lighting effect
Because Angkor is near the equatorial geographic line, during mid-day, the sun light enters the temple chamber directly from above illuminating the Buddha figure in the center like showed in the following pictures. It’s a must see event which happens in most temples with chambers.
