Date of Construction:
Late 12th century C.E.
Religious Affiliation:
Buddhist
Patron or King:
Jayavarman VII
Artistic/Archeo. Style:
Bayon
Location: AAP/GC
Location of Entrance: Road
from north
Duration of Visit: 30-45
minutes
Time to Visit: Anytime
Best in west season when the reflecting pools are full.
Position: 13d27'47N 103d53'40E
A small island temple located in the middle
of the last baray (the Preah Khan Baray or Jayatataka) to be
constructed by a Khmer king in the Angkor area. The central
temple sits at the axis of a cross or lotus pattern of eight
pools. Originally known as Rajasri, Neak Pean took its
modern appellation, which means ‘coiled serpents,’ from the
encoiled nagas that encircled the temple. The temple is faced by
a statue of the horse, Balaha, saving drowning sailors. Though
originally dedicated to Buddha, Neak Pean contains
several Hindu images. Neak Pean may have served an
absolution function, and the waters were thought to have healing
properties. During the dry season when the water is low, check
out the animal and human headwater spouts at the outside center
of each pool. Neak Pean is most photogenic in the wet
season when the pools are full. |
