Terrace of the Elephants, Siem Reap
The Terrace of the Elephants is a remarkable archaeological site within the vast temple complex. It was an essential part of the grandeur of Angkor's king, Jayavarman VII's reign, serving multiple purposes during that time.
The terrace was originally constructed as a platform for King Jayavarman VII to observe and greet his victorious returning army. It was strategically attached to the palace of Phimeanakas, although only a few ruins of the once magnificent palace remain today. The majority of the original structure was built using organic materials, which have long since decayed, leaving behind the foundation platforms of the complex.
The name "Terrace of the Elephants" was derived from the remarkable carvings of elephants adorning its eastern face. These intricate carvings pay homage to the significance of elephants in the Khmer culture, symbolizing power, strength, and regal magnificence.
Stretching an impressive 350 meters in length, the Terrace of the Elephants served as a grand reviewing stand for various public ceremonies. It also functioned as the base for the king's grand audience hall, where he held important meetings and events. The terrace featured five outworks extending towards the Central Square - three in the center and one at each end, contributing to its monumental scale and architectural grandeur.
The middle section of the retaining wall was adorned with life-sized sculptures of mythical bird-like creatures and lions, adding an air of mythological significance to the site. Towards either end of the terrace, visitors can witness the renowned parade of elephants depicted in the carvings, complete with their elephant handlers.
The terrace was originally constructed as a platform for King Jayavarman VII to observe and greet his victorious returning army. It was strategically attached to the palace of Phimeanakas, although only a few ruins of the once magnificent palace remain today. The majority of the original structure was built using organic materials, which have long since decayed, leaving behind the foundation platforms of the complex.
The name "Terrace of the Elephants" was derived from the remarkable carvings of elephants adorning its eastern face. These intricate carvings pay homage to the significance of elephants in the Khmer culture, symbolizing power, strength, and regal magnificence.
Stretching an impressive 350 meters in length, the Terrace of the Elephants served as a grand reviewing stand for various public ceremonies. It also functioned as the base for the king's grand audience hall, where he held important meetings and events. The terrace featured five outworks extending towards the Central Square - three in the center and one at each end, contributing to its monumental scale and architectural grandeur.
The middle section of the retaining wall was adorned with life-sized sculptures of mythical bird-like creatures and lions, adding an air of mythological significance to the site. Towards either end of the terrace, visitors can witness the renowned parade of elephants depicted in the carvings, complete with their elephant handlers.
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Terrace of the Elephants on Map
Sight Name: Terrace of the Elephants
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.
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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