Banteay Srei
16 images 2 contributors Shoot with care
Sue Wolfe
Shoot with care
Banteay Srei is a national treasure. Be sure to stay within boundaries and follow the rules.
About this spot
Banteay Srei is a 10th century Cambodian temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Its original name was Tribhuvanamahesvara (Lord of the Threefold World). The modern name, Banteay Srei, means Citadel of the Women—perhaps related to the intricacy of the carvings found in the red sandstone. Some believe the temple was built by women.
The temple was dedicated in 967 and was the only major temple at Angkor not built by a monarch. It was constructed by two counsellors to King Rajendravarman II. This miniature temple is square and has entrances at the east and west. The libraries and central towers are decorated with male and female divinities and filigree work. In fact, almost every inch of the interior buildings are covered in decoration. This was made possible by the soft sandstone which can be carved like wood. Banteay Srei remained in use at least until the 14th century.
The temple was lost in the jungle during the Cambodia dark age era and was rediscovered in 1914. It made headlines in 1923, when a French novelist and politician stole four devatas from the site. He was soon arrested, and the figures returned. Unfortunately, the temple has been ravaged by pilfering and vandalism. Some of the original statues have been removed to the National Museum in Phnom Penh for preservation.
The temple was dedicated in 967 and was the only major temple at Angkor not built by a monarch. It was constructed by two counsellors to King Rajendravarman II. This miniature temple is square and has entrances at the east and west. The libraries and central towers are decorated with male and female divinities and filigree work. In fact, almost every inch of the interior buildings are covered in decoration. This was made possible by the soft sandstone which can be carved like wood. Banteay Srei remained in use at least until the 14th century.
The temple was lost in the jungle during the Cambodia dark age era and was rediscovered in 1914. It made headlines in 1923, when a French novelist and politician stole four devatas from the site. He was soon arrested, and the figures returned. Unfortunately, the temple has been ravaged by pilfering and vandalism. Some of the original statues have been removed to the National Museum in Phnom Penh for preservation.
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