Bakong Temple is located in Ov Lok Village, Bakong Commune, Bakong District, Siem Reap Province, and is situated in the center of the ancient capital Hariharalaya, to the south of Preah Ko Temple. It was built during the reign of King Indravarman I in the year 881. This temple is considered a royal temple, dedicated to the god Shiva, and also symbolizes the power of the king himself. When the king passed away, the temple was used as his mausoleum.
The name "Bakong" is a newer name, used in later periods. The word "Bakong" is made up of three parts: "Prasat" + "Ba" + "Kong".
· "Prasat" means a sacred place where the gods reside.
· "Ba" means the ruler or guardian of the world.
· "Kong" refers to an object that produces a loud, echoing sound, traditionally used by believers to create a sound that calls upon or alerts the deities.
According to the temple’s inscription, its original name was "Indresvara". Based on the
inscription number K.826, Bakong Temple was originally named "Indresvara", a Sanskrit or Pali name meaning "Indra is the Lord". It was established in 881 CE during the reign of King Indravarman I in the late 9th century.
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