Preah Khan is a temple complex located in Angkor, Cambodia. It was built in the 12th century during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, who dedicated the temple to his father. Preah Khan is one of the largest temple complexes in Angkor and served as a Buddhist monastery and center of learning. The name “Preah Khan” means “Sacred Sword” in Khmer, reflecting its historical significance and possibly referencing the legendary sword that Jayavarman VII used to defeat the Cham invaders.
Preah Khan features a central sanctuary surrounded by galleries, pavilions, and various smaller structures. The temple is known for its impressive architecture, including intricately carved stone decorations, bas-reliefs depicting Hindu and Buddhist mythology, and iconic stone carvings of devatas (celestial beings) and apsaras (heavenly nymphs). Like other temples in the Angkor complex, Preah Khan fell into disrepair over the centuries but has undergone extensive restoration efforts in recent years, allowing visitors to appreciate its historical and architectural significance.
Today, Preah Khan is a popular tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world who come to explore its ancient ruins and learn about Cambodia’s rich cultural heritage.