 A
small island temple located in the middle of the last baray to be
constructed by a Khmer king in the Angkor area (Preah Khan Baray or
Jayatataka). The central temple sits at the axis of a cross or lotus
pattern of eight pools. Originally known as Rajasri, Neak Pean took its
modern appellation, which means ‘coiled serpents,’ from the encoiled
nagas that encircled the temple. The temple is faced by a statue of the
horse, Balaha, saving drowning sailors. Though originally dedicated to
Buddha, Neak Pean contains several Hindu images. Neak Pean may have
served an absolution function, and the waters were thought to have
healing properties. During the dry season when the water is low, check
out the animal and human headwater spouts at the outside center of each
pool. Neak Pean is most photogenic in the wet season when the pools are
full. |
