Terrace of the Leper King, Siem Reap
The Terrace of the Leper King, situated in the northwest corner of the Royal Square of Angkor Thom is a fascinating and historically significant monument. The terrace was constructed in the Bayon architectural style during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, a period known for its remarkable architectural achievements.
The modern name of the terrace is derived from a sculpture discovered at the site in the 15th century. This sculpture portrays the Hindu god Yama, who is known as the god of Death in Hindu mythology. The statue earned its association with the Leper King due to the appearance of discoloration and moss growth on its surface, which resembled the physical symptoms of leprosy. Additionally, the name seemed to align with a Cambodian legend about an Angkorian king who suffered from leprosy.
Despite the association with leprosy, the original name inscribed at the bottom of the statue was "Dharmaraja." This name, which translates to "King of Dharma" or "Righteous King," is a reflection of the god Yama's role as the divine judge who weighs a person's good and bad deeds after death.
The Terrace of the Leper King is an exceptional architectural masterpiece that showcases the artistic prowess of the Khmer civilization. As part of the Angkor Thom complex, it holds a significant place in Cambodian history and culture. The terrace features intricate carvings and decorative elements that highlight the influence of Hindu mythology and religious beliefs prevalent during the Khmer Empire.
The modern name of the terrace is derived from a sculpture discovered at the site in the 15th century. This sculpture portrays the Hindu god Yama, who is known as the god of Death in Hindu mythology. The statue earned its association with the Leper King due to the appearance of discoloration and moss growth on its surface, which resembled the physical symptoms of leprosy. Additionally, the name seemed to align with a Cambodian legend about an Angkorian king who suffered from leprosy.
Despite the association with leprosy, the original name inscribed at the bottom of the statue was "Dharmaraja." This name, which translates to "King of Dharma" or "Righteous King," is a reflection of the god Yama's role as the divine judge who weighs a person's good and bad deeds after death.
The Terrace of the Leper King is an exceptional architectural masterpiece that showcases the artistic prowess of the Khmer civilization. As part of the Angkor Thom complex, it holds a significant place in Cambodian history and culture. The terrace features intricate carvings and decorative elements that highlight the influence of Hindu mythology and religious beliefs prevalent during the Khmer Empire.
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Terrace of the Leper King on Map
Sight Name: Terrace of the Leper King
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.
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
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