The art and architecture of India - Buddhist, Hindu, Jain (Art Ebook)

CAMBODIA: THE KHMERS 395
Chamkrong, dated 947, and standing in the
shadow of Phnom Bakheng [324]. Here a tower
of the type seen at Roluos and Lolei is placed on
the summit of a pyramid of five storeys with
staircases on all four sides. Originally there were
sedent lions flanking these approaches at each
level of the ascent. This temple was not, of
course, the 'official' temple-mountain of the
realm, but a lesser dedication, perhaps to a
deified royal ancestor.
The Phnom Bakheng itself, sometimes designated
as 'the resting place of Indra', was a true
temple-mountain dedicated to the worship of
the Devaraja, Yasovarman, in the magic centre
of his capital and realm [325].
15 It is located at
324. Angkor, Baksei Chamkrong
the intersection of great avenues leading to
gates in the city walls. The sanctuary is really an
artful camouflaging of a natural hill in stone.
325. Angkor, Phnom Bakheng