Pre Rup, Siem Reap

Pre Rup holds a significant place in the history and architecture of the Angkor region. Constructed as the state temple of Khmer king Rajendravarman in 961 or early 962, Pre Rup is a stunning example of temple mountain architecture, combining elements of brick, laterite, and sandstone.

The name "Pre Rup" is a relatively modern term that translates to "turn the body." This name originates from the belief held by Cambodians that funerals took place at the temple. During these ceremonies, the ashes of the deceased would be ritually rotated in different directions as the funeral service progressed.

Pre Rup is aligned with the East Mebon temple and constructed with laterite and brick, giving it a reddish tone. The temple features a square layout with two perimeter walls, entrance pavilions, and towers aligned north to south. There are libraries on the second platform, and long galleries along the sides. Pre Rup temple culminates in a squared pyramid with five towers arranged in a quincunx pattern. Bas-reliefs of deities adorn the central tower, while the other towers once housed statues of Hindu gods and goddesses. The northeastern tower bears an inscription from Jayavarman VI, the only evidence of his reign at Angkor.

Pre Rup was dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva and is believed to have been built on the grounds of a former Shivaite ashram, which had been established by Yasovarman I in the preceding century. There is speculation that the temple may have been the focal point of a new capital city constructed by Rajend.