PREAH VIHEAR TEMPLE

This sacred temple dates back to the Khmer civilization, even before the creation of the kingdom of Siam. The construction would have taken place in the 11th century AD, but its history begins with the foundation of a hermitage in the 9th century. The site is well preserved, surely thanks to its remote position and difficult access. Located on the current Cambodian territory, in the village of Svay Chrum, the temple is accessible from the Thai border, from the village of Pha Mo Daeng. It has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.

Raised at an altitude of 730 m on a rocky spur, the temple of Preah Vihear is dedicated to Shiva, the god of the Hindu pantheon. Giant nâgas, mythical guardians, erect their seven heads more than 2 m away, overlooking the first flight of a colossal staircase where magnificent pediments are still visible. A wide sloping pavement made of sandstone slabs crosses a succession of gopuras (pavilions). The site is composed of several sanctuaries, connected by stairs and paths, scattered around an 800-metre long axis. It has been modified by successive kings, and therefore includes elements of various architectural styles. As we walk along this sacred path to rise to the level of the heavens, we finally embrace the immense horizon! The view of the Cambodian plain is absolutely magnificent.... The ascent to reach it is quite sporty because the difference in altitude is significant, so the Prasat Preah Vihear must be earned...