The tower of crystal or
glass
The majestic ziggurat of Ta Keo, most enigmatic of the minor fanes, stepping up
toward the sun with dignity and power suggestive of Angkor vat. It is dripping
with green and crowned with trees, but is still supreme over the forest. Its
rocky masses, rising above the tops of the coconut palms, convert the impression
that it only recently emerged from some cavern underground, carrying the forest
with it in its rocketing ascent.
Ta Keo's lack of ornament
makes it distinctive among the works of the Khmer, who were so prodigal of
decoration. But its very simplicity give it architectural importance, its plan
shows the development of anew spirit in the people, the growth of good taste.
Location:
Ta Keo is locate in the east of Thommanon and Chau Say Tevoda. A enter and leave
by the south or east entrances.
Tip:
The ascent to this temple is step and because of its orientation a visit in the
morning is preferable.
It was built in the end of the tenth century to early 11th century by the King
Jayavarman V to Suryavarman I dedicated to Siva (Hindu), replica to Kleang style
of art.
BACKGROUND
An unusual
aspect of this temple is that it remains unfinished; the reason for its no
completion is unknown. Had it been finished, Ta Keo would undoubtedly have been
one of the finest temples at Angkor. It is an imposing sight, scaling 22 meters
(72feet) to the sky, and gives an impression of power. Ta Keo is the first
temple built entirely in sandstone and as such serves as a milestone in Khmer
history. Enormous blocks of stone were cut to a regular size and placed in
position. The absence of decoration at ta Keo gives it a simplicity of design
that separates it from the other monuments.
LAYOUT
Ta Keo is
square in Plan with five towers arranged like the dots on the face of a die and
stands majestically on a terrace that is 12 meters (39 feet) high with three
tiers. It is a representation of Mount Meru. The base has fine molding. The
temple has two enclosures with entry towers on each side. There are inscription
on the pilasters of the east entry tower. The first two tiers of the platform
form the base of two courtyards. One is enclosed by a wall the other by a
gallery, the gallery is too narrow to permit walking around.
The east entrance to Ta Keo is marked by a causeway over a moat that is preceded by lions and boundary stones (not shown on the plan). The entry tower in the exterior wall was made of sandstone with a central tower and three passages. On each side of the east wall there was a long hall that was probably a shelter for pilgrims. It was preceded by a porch with pillars.
The second terrace has a molded laterite base with four sandstone entry towers, one on each side. It is surrounded by a sandstone gallery lit by windows on the in terrier. The gallery completely surrounds the terrace and has openings on each of the four sides. On the east there are two long halls of the same type as the rest halls on the first terrace. Two libraries open to the west.
CENTRAL AREA
The upper level
is square and stands on a tiered base with stairways on each side. Most of the
space on the upper level is occupied by the five tower, all unfinished, opening
to the four cardinal points. The Central Sanctuary dominates the layout. It is
raised above the other towers and is given further importance by the development
of porches and pediments. The interior of the central tower is undecorated.
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Source: tourismcambodia |