The sheer wonder felt by the late 19th century French archaeologists of 'rediscovering' one significant ancient ruin after another in the jungles of northwest Cambodia can be only imagined. When plans were formed in the early 20th century to stabilise and restore the great temple of Angkor the EFEO decided to maintian Ta Prohm in the natural state in which it had been found as a "concession to the general taste for the picturesque". Great silk-cotton trees appear to melt into the melticulously hewn stones, binding them together or tearing them apart in an extraordinary fusion of nature and man, and a juxtaposition of other and chaos.
The threat of damage from falling trees and huge visitors footfall forced a new strategy of intervention. The Archaeological Survey of India, The International Coordinating Committee of Angkor and APSARA have sought since 2003 to stabilise the site. Early suggestions that many of the trees would be cut riase a storm of protest worldwide, nevertheless some large trees have had to be felled that were endangering the structure and the network wooden walkways provided to cope with the large numbers of tourists. Nowadays Ta Prohm appears less in the grip of nature than some other large temple sites such as Beng Mealea, Banteay Chhmar or Chau Srei Vibol but remain one of the 'must see'site at Angkor.
Most guides and drivers will bring you to the temple by the west gate, which is actually the back door of the temple. Others recommend entering by the ancient main (east) gate. Our recommendation is to stay ahead of the crowds that will follow on behind you. Exit by the east or, if condition allow, through the quiet north gate to the woodland track.
Leaving the road you will pass through 330m (1100ft) to the West Gopura through a forest which was once dense network of houses of those whose lives were bound up in service to the temple.
Ta Prohm is one the few temples bearing an inscription detailing the indentured servants, 79,635 in total, including 18 high priests, 2,740 officials, 2,232 assistants and 615 dancers, There was also an inventory of property including a set of gold plates weighing 5 tonnes, 35 diamonds, 40,620 pearls , 4,540 precious stones, 967 veils from China, 512 silk beds and 523 parasols.
Javaraman VII constructed Ta Prohm to honor his mother while Preah Khan was dedicated to his father. Here he bestowed numerous statues, including one of Prainaparamita, personifiying of the perfection of wisdom, and whom the king identified with is mother.
The central sanctuary has a rather unfinished look to it and would have been clad entirely in lime stucco and decorated on the inner surface with bronze panels.
Noted: In May 2002, Indian archaeologists excavating in front of the Hall of the Dancers found first a statue of Buddha and then a golden crown weight 5kg (11lbs) now held at the APSARA offices in Siem Reap.
Video of Ta Prohm Temple  |
| Medallion detail with a passing similarity to stegosaurus dinosaur but mostly likely represents a creature from Hindu mythology called Makara. |
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