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Sambor Prei Kuk's immensity and grandeur may not be comparable to that of Angkor Wat but it has a timeless appeal and an "air of enigma" as its temple complex is tucked at the heart of a dense jungle, seemingly out of place in today's modern world. Originally called Isanapura, the Sambor Prei Kuk pre-dates Angkor Wat and was the capital of the pre-Angkorian Khmer kingdom known by Chinese historians as Chenla.
This pre-Angkorian complex shrine has been an important destinations for the over a millennia, not only to the those interested in art and archaeology but for people who want to take a peek to this impressive seventh century temple boasting three main complexes: the Prasat Tor (Lion Temple) at the center, the Prasat Sambor Prei Kuk to the north and the Prasat Neak Peanto the south.
The main temple complexes are walled, containing a number of prasats (columns). Some of the carvings on the columns and lintels are still in good condition, exhibiting fine examples of the Khmer art. Not many tourists frequent the place but a horde of Cambodian children hawk brightly colored scarves.
Sambor Prei Kuk is a significant architectural heritage of Cambodia that's why the local government, with the help of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts and a leading Japanese university, is restoring and preserving the ruins for the next generation.
Sambor Prei Kuk Landmarks:
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