Preak Ko (Prah Ko) - Ruluos, Siem Reap

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13 Feb 2014

The morning was dedicated to temples at Roluos.  We started the tour with Preah Ko - the sacred bull.  It was build in late 9th century by King Indravarman I.  It is dedicated to Siva and is a funerary temple built for the king's parents, maternal grandparents, King Jayavarman II and his wife.

The complex of Preah Ko is surrounded by four walls but in ruined state.  At the central part are six brick towers in two rows, standing on a low platform.  The three in the front row are for maternal ancestors with male guardian flanking the doorways.  The three on the back are for maternal ancestors and flanked by female divinities.
The back row of towers is curiously unevenly spaced with the right-hand one closer to the center tower than left-hand one. It has been suggested the two closer towers signify two ancestors love each other during their life.
 

Beautiful lintels are present.  Look around and appreciate the beauty and fine craftsmanship.  Lions are guarding in front.  Again, with fine quality.   Opposite in the complex sit three kneeling bulls -
Shiva's Nandi.  They gave the temple the modern name of The Sacred Bull.
Lintel on SE sanctuary
Lions guarding the entrance to the 6 towers
3 Sacred Bulls facing the steps guarded by lions
Location: Roluos, Cambodia

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