 Banteay
Srey loosely translates to ‘citadel of the women,’ but this is a modern
appellation that probably refers to the delicate beauty of the carvings.
This temple was discovered by French archaeologists comparatively late
in their research, not until in 1914. Banteay Srey was built at a time
when the Khmer Empire was gaining significant power and territory,
constructed by a Brahmin counselor under a powerful king, Rajendravarman,
and later under Jayavarman V. The temple displays some of the finest
examples of classical Khmer art - the walls densely covered with some of
the most beautiful, deep and intricate carvings of any Angkorian temple.
The temple's relatively small size, pink sandstone construction and
ornate design give it a fairyland ambiance. The colors are best before
10:30 AM and after 2:00 PM. The temple area closes at 5:00 PM. Banteay
Srey lies 38 km from Siem Reap, requiring extra travel time. Drivers
usually charge a fee in addition to their normal daily charge for the
trip. Banteay Srey is well worth the extra effort. Combine a visit to
Banteay Srey with Banteay Samre.. |
