Phimeanakas Temple- Cambodia

Address

Phimeanakas Temple- Krong Siem Reap, Angkor, Cambodia

Diety

Shiva

Introduction

Phimeanakas or Vimeanakas at Angkor, Cambodia, is a Hindu temple in the Khleang style, built at the end of the 10th century, during the reign of Rajendravarman, then completed by Suryavarman I in the shape of a three tier pyramid as a temple. This temple is dedicated to Hindu deity Shiva. In the shape of a three tier pyramid as a Hindu temple. On top of the pyramid there was a tower, while on the edge of top platform there are galleries. Phimeanakas is located inside the walled enclosure of the Royal Palace of Angkor Thom north of Baphuon

Puranic Significance

The temple was the focal point of Suryavarman I’s capital. The buildings there from his reign are enclosed by a wall 600 by 250 m, with five gopuram, and include the Southern and Northern Khleangs . Phimeanakas was constructed in the Khleang style. The name Phimeanakas actually translates to “Celestial Palace.” Construction started at the end of the 10th-century during the reign of Rajendravarma II and was completed by Suryavarma I. It went on to become the state temple of Suryavarman I and the focal point of his capital. The structure was also used by King Jayavarman VII as his private temple and was designed in laterite, a type of clay. Atop the pyramid was a tower that rose from a platform.. Along the edge of the top platform are covered galleries. These were the first vaulted galleries to be constructed in Angkor. At the corners of each of the tiers are guardian elephant statues. At the base, the structure measures 82 feet (35 meters) long and 91 feet (28 meters) wide. A very steep stairway leads to the top. All four sides are guarded by lion statues.