VC22A Siem Reap - Sambo Preikuk

Drive to the 7th century temple of Sambor Prei Kuk, the ruins of Isanapura and the former capital city of the pre-Angkorian Khmer Kingdom known as Chenla from Chinese chronicles. It is divided mainly into three complexes namely Preah Sambor/North Group; Preah Tor (”Lion Temple”)/Central Group; and Preah Yeay Poun/South Group. The main temple complexes are walled and contain a number of prasads in differing states of ruin. Most of these temples date from the 7th century, or 600 years before the period of Angkor. The principal material is brick, but sandstone may be found in various structures. The brickwork has finely sculptured reliefs reminiscent of those found in India.