 Angkor temples
Tep Pranam
Tep
Pranam was originally a Buddhist shrine in the 9th century
under Yasovarman I (889-900+). It was expanded over the years with
12th century balustrades, 13th century lions and
significant post-Angkorian modifications and additions.
The terrace lies 100 metres north of the terrace
of the Leper King, east of Preah
Palilay temple. The large Buddha seated on a lotus pedestal on a
moulded base in sandstone dates from an undefined period. The body of the
Buddha has been reassembled from numerous stones.
Just to the west of Tep Pranam are the remains of a pool with laterite
steps, next to which another large standing Buddha has been reconstructed,
over 4m. in height and making the ritual gesture of "absence of
fear". His face is missing.
It is one of the most serene areas in the Angkor park. A visit to this
area should not be rushed. Several monks live in a wooden monastery nearby
while another building houses nuns widowed under the Pol Pot regime. |
