East Mebon

Angkor, Cambodia
dedicated in 953

This large (126m x 121m, 416' x 400') temple complex was built by Rajendravarman (944-968) on an island in the middle of the East Baray. Both the baray and the island had been constructed by an earlier king, Yasovarman I (899-915). Visiting the temple now, when the baray has dried up, one should visualize the great reservoir filled with water, up to the level of the first platform. Visitors would have docked at the boat landings, one on each side, which today perch fifteen feet above the dry bed of the reservoir. This photo was taken from the second level above the south landing, just in front of the central platform, which supports five towers arranged in a quincunx. An additional platform elevates the main tower (center of photo).