Ta Keo Temple

a Keo is a pyramid of five levels reaching a total height of 22m – the first two form the base of two enclosing courtyards, one surrounded by a simple wall and the other by a gallery, while the last three, through proportional reduction are a massive artificial plinth for the quincunx of sanctuaries.

This is the first realisation in sandstone of such a structure (generally dedicated to deified nobility) after the temple of Bakheng that crowned a natural hill serving as its core. Ta Keo is constructed with much more care in the systematic cutting and placing of enormous blocks of stone, the arrangement of which can be viewed easily, due to the absence of almost any moulding or decoration.

The reason for this temple remaining unfinished is unknown for it was abandoned soon after the start of its ornamentation. By these remaining fragments, this temple dates to the end of 10th century and the early years of the 11th. Inscriptions engraved on the door jambs of the eastern gopuras, relating to donations made to the temple (but not to its foundation) date from 1007.