Prasat Tor
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"Prasat Tor" is sometimes spelt "Prasat To". The "r" of "Tor" is not pronounced, the "o" is open and long. A "Tor" is an irrigation construction, a kind of channel, collecting water and conducting it to a tank.
Prasat Tor is a smaller structure east of Angkor. It is rarely visited. Prasat Tor is located close to the north-east corner of the East Baray. When travelling to Banteay Samray, turn left only 300 metres before reaching the car park of Banteay Samray. The track to Prasat Tor then crosses a typical Cambodian village situated on the crown of the dike of Angkor's former main reservoir East Baray, which is dry now. Though this man-made construction may not be impressive, be aware: Here you are on a monument that is huger than the Angkor Wat! For archaeologists, this dam is real big stuff in Angkor. At the north end of the former embankment turn right. After only 200 metres there is a path to the right leading to Prasat Tor. But you have to cross a stream. It is muddy even in the dry season. The temple consists of two brick towers, orientated east. A Mandapa hall precedes the southern tower, but seperated instead of being connected to the main sanctuary by an Antarala. The Prasat has a sandstone lintel depicting a god enthroned on Kala demon; it is in the style of Preah Ko. This means it is contemporary to Roluos temples of the late ninth century. Nearby is Neak Ta shrine, also called Ta Tor, and the canopy of a stele. The morning hours are better to see the front sides and the lintels, the afternoon is good for viewing the ensemble as a whole. An Angkor ticket is not required to visit this remote structure. |
