- Address: Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Date of construction: 1181
The most exclusive landmark of Cambodia was the ancient city-temple of Bantai Kdei in Siem Reap. It is a magnificent memorial of the history and architecture of the Khmer era. In the twelfth century this place was the most honorable in all of Cambodia. Due to numerous architectural errors, the monastic complex is increasingly destroyed every year. And it is not surprising, because the construction project was entrusted to a young and inexperienced architect, who chose sandstone as the main building material.
In our time, Bantai Kdei is a complex of destroyed, but majestic monastic buildings. You can safely visit them and get acquainted with the history of the principality. Of course, the King of Cambodia has decided to preserve and perpetuate this place, so at the moment the restoration works are being carried out on the territory of the complex.
From the history
The construction of Bantai Kdeia was started in 1118 by order of King Jayavarman VII. This place was to become a real central monastery. The temple was made in the style of Bayon : the walls are painted in deep red color, golden multi-tiered roofs and green and gold murals on the walls of buildings. Unfortunately, the low-quality sandstone could not stand the rain and other elements of the terrain, so the temple began to collapse after 25 years after the construction was completed.
Bantai Kday in our time
At the moment, Bantai Kdei is a kind of open-air museum. Ancient buildings have long taken prisoner's jungle. The administration of the park tries to ensure that nature does not affect the destruction of buildings.
Walking through the museum you can see many interesting frescos on the walls of ancient buildings. About their meaning you can tell the guide. In some buildings, still very interesting sculptures of patrons, which were created during the construction of the complex. During the tour you will be able to stumble upon the tradesmen who offer various souvenirs or services (photography, renting of binoculars, etc.). Some ancient buildings still gather monks and hold morning prayers. Behind them you can observe, and if you want, then take part in this action.
How to get there?
Public transport to the temple does not go, but it's quite easy to get to Bantai Kdeia. If you are traveling by private transport (car or motorcycle), then you need to choose route number 67 and turn to the left at the intersection with the route No. 661. If you order a tour at a travel agency, then you will be taken to a special sightseeing bus by this tourist attraction.
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