History
Bakong was Consecrated in 881 under the King Indravarman I. it is located in Roluos area, where was located Hariharayala, former capital during the 9th century. It is the first major mountain temple built in the Angkor Site. Its size is considerable (900 x 700 meters). Particular attractions: the 3 enclosures, the pyramid, the ground level sanctuaries and the lintels.
Before entering an enclosure measuring 400 by 300 meters which is surrounded by an exterior wall and a moat somewhat wider than it is deep, we find ourselves in a larger enclosure measuring 900 by 700 meters. In this outer enclosure, ruins and remains of at least 22 sanctuaries are found. These sanctuaries can perhaps be considered satellites of the central complex in that some of them, instead of facing east, turn to face the central pyramid.
The naga (serpent) with seven heads found on the side of the entrance causeway appears here for the first time in the place which will be taken by future naga balustrades. The brick towers, located at the foot of the pyramid, still have their original wooden supporting beams despite the ravages of time.