Roluos Group Temples
A Glimpse into Early Khmer Civilization
Situated 15 kilometers southeast of Siem Reap town, the Roluos Group of temples comprises three significant structures: Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei. These temples are closely clustered together and occupy an area extending 3 kilometers east of the Great Lake. Dating back to the late ninth century, the Roluos Group represents the earliest phase of the illustrious Angkor Period, spanning over 600 years. These temples offer valuable insights into the origins of Khmer art during the "Classic Period."
Historical Context:Roluos, the namesake village, was once the site of Hariharalaya, an ancient Khmer civilization center meaning the "abode of Hari (Vishnu) and Hara (Shiva)." Established by King Jayavarman II as his capital, Hariharalaya served strategic and agricultural purposes. Jayavarman II's death in 850 at Roluos marked a significant historical event, and subsequent rulers likely continued to reside there until the capital shifted to Yasodharapura around 905 AD.
Historical Context:
Constructed during the reign of King Indravarman I, Bakong Temple reflects the cultural and religious landscape of ninth-century Khmer civilization. Its significance extends beyond religious worship, serving as a symbol of royal patronage, architectural innovation, and cultural identity. The temple's enduring legacy influenced subsequent temple construction and architectural styles, leaving an indelible mark on Khmer art and architecture.
Preah Ko Temple:
Preah Ko, erected in the late ninth century around 879 AD during the reign of King Indravarman I, stands as a testament to early Khmer architecture and religious devotion. This Çivait temple, dedicated to the king's ancestors, is characterized by its distinctive layout and symbolic significance.
Layout and Symbolism:
The central feature of Preah Ko is a group of six towers arranged in two rows atop a shared terrace. Enclosed by a square wall measuring 60 meters on each side, the temple's inner sanctum is further protected by a second wall spanning 95 meters per side. Within these walls lie libraries and ancillary structures, likely used for religious rituals and ceremonies.
The outer enclosure, extending 800 meters by 450 meters, was likely bounded by a protective fence. The temple's architectural layout reflects a meticulous division between paternal and maternal ancestors, with three towers dedicated to each lineage. Male guardians flank the doorways of the towers honoring paternal ancestors, while maternal ancestors are similarly revered in the rear row.
Significance of Ancestral Worship:
The ancestors honored within Preah Ko's towers are revered as deities, with Çiva Lingas installed to symbolize their divine presence. Each tower is associated with specific ancestors, including:
Conclusion: The Roluos Group Temples, particularly Preah Ko, offer invaluable insights into the early development of Khmer civilization and its religious practices. Through their architectural grandeur and symbolic significance, these temples provide a window into the rich cultural heritage of ancient Cambodia, laying the foundation for the magnificent temples that would define the Angkor Period and beyond.