Date of Construction:
Late 10th century C.E.
Religious Affiliation:
Hinduism
Patron or King:
Rajendravarman
Artistic/Archeo. Style:
Banteay Srey
Location: AAP - Outside the
main Park area. 37 kms north of Siem Reap
Duration of Visit:
45 minutes 1-1/2 hours
Photography Notes:
Many of the carvings are roped off. Bring a
telephoto lens and tripod for carving shots.
Position: 13d35'56N 103d57'46E
Banteay Srey
loosely translates to ‘citadel of the women,’ but this is a
modern appellation that probably refers to the delicate beauty
of the carvings. Built at a time when the Khmer Empire was
gaining significant power and territory, the temple was
constructed by a Brahmin counselor under a powerful king,
Rajendravarman and later under Jayavarman V. Banteay Srey
displays some of the finest examples of classical Khmer art. The
walls are densely covered with some of the most beautiful, deep
and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple. The temple's
relatively small size, pink sandstone construction and ornate
design give it a fairyland ambiance. The colors are best before
10:30 AM and after 2:00 PM, but there are fewer tourists in the
afternoon. This temple was discovered by French archaeologists
relatively late, in 1914. The temple area closes at 5:00 PM.
Banteay Srey lies 38 km from Siem Reap, requiring extra
travel time. Drivers usually charge a fee in addition to their
normal daily charge for the trip. Banteay Srey is well
worth the extra effort. Combine a visit to Banteay Srey
with
Banteay Samre. |
