Leper King Terrace overview
Leper King Terrace (The Terrace of the Leper King) is a structure in Cambodia’s Royal Square of the Angkor Thom Complex. It was constructed in the Bayon style during the reign of King Jayavarman VII, but its current name comes from a sculpture from the 15th century that was found nearby.
You can take a tramcar to the temple from the Royal Square of Angkor Thom’s main entrance. You will see Leper King Terrace located at the end of the passageway after crossing Bayon, Baphuon Temple, and Terrace of the Elephants.
This building’s peculiar name, along with the sculpture and décor styles, give it a distinctive look. Its name may have been inspired by the monument of a leper king that was erected in the yard.
Because the original was transferred to the Phnom Penh National Museum, it is actually just a duplicate. According to some academics, the statue is depicted with the right leg lifted in the stance that is characteristic of Java.
Leper King Terraces’ features
The term “the leper king” is surrounded by a lot of myths and enigmas. Since it is believed that King Jayavarman VII was a leper, he constructed numerous hospitals while in power. But there doesn’t seem to be any historical support for this theory.
According to some historians, this statue represents Yasovarman I or Kubera, the God of Health (both of them were lepers). Another viewpoint is supported by the inscriptions that have been inscribed on the statue.
It refers to Yama, the God of Death or Judgment, in physical form. Some other individuals claim that the lichens that are sprouting on the statue of a leper king are the reason it bears its name. In addition, the lost arm’s position on the statue suggests that it is holding something.
According to some researchers, nearly all temples in Cambodia are actually the cremation tombs of kings. They, therefore, confirm that the Royal Tombs are located on the Terrace of the Leper King. However, there are still a small number of people who hold this view, and there is no supporting documentation in the past.
Leper King Terrace is situated on a square base with sides that are each 25 meters long and 6 meters high. All of them are composed of laterite, covered in sandstone, and embellished with seven horizontally striped bas-reliefs.
The mythological monsters described on the exterior wall include the deity snake, the garuda, and the giants with numerous arms clutching a mace or sword. Bas-reliefs that are finely decorated are on the inner wall. Their content resembles that of outside reliefs quite a bit. When the outer wall was created, this wall was originally built and buried beneath the ground.
Additionally, some low pillars with carvings of fish, elephants, and a horizontal strip like a river have been added. The finely carved walls show the lives of people and other living creatures. The final layer of the wall is sculpted with the image of gods riding marine animals and holding sacred objects in their hands.
It is undeniable that the myths and lore surrounding the name of this landmark attract travelers on their own. They come here not only to appreciate an old Khmer structure and snap lovely pictures but also to learn more about the strange legends that surround it.
Even though it is not as well-known as other tourist attractions, this site is nevertheless worth seeing in the Kingdom of Cambodia. Leper King Terrace will make a fantastic visit on your trip to Cambodia if you enjoy exploring the country’s historic temples and distinctive architectural styles. Be prepared to learn about and encounter this monument in fascinating ways!
How to travel to Leper King Terrace?
This location is only about 17 kilometers from Siem Reap’s town center; you can get there by bus, vehicle, taxi, or tuk-tuk (one of Cambodia’s most popular vehicles). Terrace of the Elephants was built inside Angkor Thom Temple and is accessible from the main gate of Bayon Temple.
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