Preah Vihear, is an ancient Hindu temple built by the Khmer Empire, located on top of a 525-metre (1,722 ft) cliff in the Dângrêk Mountains, in the Preah Vihear province of Cambodia. Unlike the more centrally located Angkor Wat, Preah Vihear is situated on the border between Cambodia and Thailand, which has contributed to its historical and political significance as well as its relative isolation. This temple, primarily dedicated to the Hindu deity Shiva, boasts architecture that is both majestic and strategically impressive. Here’s a guide to navigating and appreciating the secrets of this cliff-top sanctuary.

Historical Overview

Preah Vihear dates back to the first half of the 11th century and was completed by several kings. The temple’s construction spanned the reigns of several kings, including Yasovarman I and Suryavarman II, who is also credited with building Angkor Wat. It is an outstanding example of Khmer architecture with its series of sanctuaries linked by a system of pavements and staircases over an 800-meter-long axis, following the natural contour of the ridge and is an outstanding masterpiece of Khmer architecture, in terms of plan, decoration and relationship to the spectacular landscape environment.

Architectural Splendor

The temple is composed of a series of sanctuaries and courtyards, each elevated above the last, connected by an elaborate system of staircases. This linear arrangement is unique among Khmer temples and is designed to represent a mythical journey between the earthly realm and the home of the gods. The temple’s main sanctuary sits at the highest point and offers breathtaking views of the Cambodian plains below, a vista that many believe aligns spiritually with the heavens.

Cultural Significance

Preah Vihear is considered one of the most sacred sites in Cambodia due to its location and religious importance. Historically, it served not only as a spiritual center but also as a place of pilgrimage for devout Hindus and Buddhists. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, and many of the lintels and pediments depict scenes from Hindu mythology, including stories of the god Krishna, as well as epic battles from the Mahabharata.

Conservation and Controversy

In July 2008, Prasat Preah Vihear, along with 26 other sites, was added to the World Heritage Site list by the World Heritage Committee. However, Thailand protested this decision due to a dispute over ownership of the surrounding land, as the map implied Cambodian ownership. Initially, both Cambodia and Thailand agreed that the temple had exceptional value and should be inscribed on the World Heritage List. Cambodia planned to propose the site for inscription with Thailand’s support. A revised map was created, focusing only on the temple and its immediate vicinity. However, Thailand’s political opposition criticized the plan, arguing that it could lead to further disputes over the overlapping area near the temple. In response to domestic pressure, the Thai government withdrew its support for the listing. Despite Thai protests, Cambodia proceeded with the application and successfully achieved World Heritage status for Preah Vihear Temple on July 7, 2008.