South Khleang (South Storehouse), Siem Reap
South Storehouse is one of the two enigmatic structures known as the Khleangs, situated on the eastern side of the Royal Square in the ancient city of Angkor Thom. These buildings, whose purpose remains unknown, stand just behind the twelve towers of Prasat Suor Prat and are separated by the royal route that leads from the Angkor Thom Royal Palace to the Victory Gate.
The orientation of South Storehouse, along the north-south axis, reflects its deliberate alignment with the layout of the surrounding architectural marvels in Angkor Thom. Notably, the two Khleang buildings were not constructed simultaneously. The northern building, known as North Storehouse, was built during the reign of King Jayaviravarman, while the southern building, South Khleang, was constructed under the reign of his successor, King Suryavarman. Despite being built by different rulers, both structures share similar design characteristics, with South Storehouse being slightly narrower than its northern counterpart.
The Storehouses are notable for lending their name to the architectural style known as the Khleang style. This style is characterized by relatively simple lintels adorned with a central kala, which is a motif depicting a fierce mythical creature often associated with time and cosmic cycles. Other buildings in Angkor Thom that showcase the Khleang style include Phimeanakas and Ta Keo, further attesting to the prevalence and influence of this architectural design during the Khmer Empire's reign.
Although the original purpose of South Storehouse remains a mystery, its presence in the grand complex of Angkor Thom adds to the fascination and intrigue surrounding the site. Visitors can marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the Khmer civilization and ponder the historical significance of this enigmatic structure.
The orientation of South Storehouse, along the north-south axis, reflects its deliberate alignment with the layout of the surrounding architectural marvels in Angkor Thom. Notably, the two Khleang buildings were not constructed simultaneously. The northern building, known as North Storehouse, was built during the reign of King Jayaviravarman, while the southern building, South Khleang, was constructed under the reign of his successor, King Suryavarman. Despite being built by different rulers, both structures share similar design characteristics, with South Storehouse being slightly narrower than its northern counterpart.
The Storehouses are notable for lending their name to the architectural style known as the Khleang style. This style is characterized by relatively simple lintels adorned with a central kala, which is a motif depicting a fierce mythical creature often associated with time and cosmic cycles. Other buildings in Angkor Thom that showcase the Khleang style include Phimeanakas and Ta Keo, further attesting to the prevalence and influence of this architectural design during the Khmer Empire's reign.
Although the original purpose of South Storehouse remains a mystery, its presence in the grand complex of Angkor Thom adds to the fascination and intrigue surrounding the site. Visitors can marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the Khmer civilization and ponder the historical significance of this enigmatic structure.
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South Khleang (South Storehouse) on Map
Sight Name: South Khleang (South Storehouse)
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia (See walking tours in Siem Reap)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Siem Reap, Cambodia
Create Your Own Walk in Siem Reap
Creating your own self-guided walk in Siem Reap is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Angkor Thom Walking Tour
Nestled within the sprawling landscape of Siem Reap, Angkor Thom stands as a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and artistic expression. Built during the late 12th century by the Khmer King Jayavarman VII, this expansive city served as the capital of the Khmer Empire. Jayavarman VII's vision was to create a city that embodied the spiritual and cultural essence of the empire. Enclosed... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.8 Km or 3 Miles
Siem Reap Introduction Walking Tour
As the gateway to the magnificent Angkor Archaeological Park, Siem Reap holds within its bounds an extraordinary blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles
Siem Reap's history dates back to the 9th century when it emerged as a small village near the Siem Reap River. Its name, meaning "Defeat of Siam," pays homage to a victorious battle fought against... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.8 Km or 1.7 Miles