Ta Phrom
Probably the most recognisable of all the Cambodian temples except Ankor Wat, because of its use in the first Tomb Raider film.
After ascending the throne 1181 A.D., Jayavarman VII embarked on a massive program of construction.
Rajavihara which today is known as Ta Prohm, was one of the first temples founded in that time.
Jayavarman VII constructed Ta Phrom in honour of his family. The temple's main image, representing wisdom, was modelled on the king's mother.
The temple's records that the site was home to more than 12,500 people (including 18 high priests and 615 dancers), with an additional 80,000 souls in the surrounding villages. The records also say that the temple amassed considerable riches, including gold, silks and pearls.
When the Khmer empire fell in the 15th century, the temple of Ta Prohm was abandoned and neglected for centuries. When French explorers discovered it in the early 20th century the surrounding jungle had grown into the temple structure and it was decided that to remove the intertwining tress from the temple could cause serious damage and the conservationists decided to leave it largely as it had been found as a "concession to the general taste for the picturesque."
Ta Phrom Tour Gallery