Ta Som, Buddhist temple complex in Angkor, Cambodia.
Ta Som is a Buddhist temple complex in the Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap, Cambodia, built with three concentric walls of laterite stone connected by gateway towers. The walls enclose an inner area with chambers, passages, and a central sanctuary that visitors move through step by step.
The temple was built in the late 12th century by Khmer king Jayavarman VII as a memorial to his deceased father. It was part of a large wave of construction across Angkor that also produced sites like Bayon and Preah Khan.
The gateways carry large stone faces looking out in four directions, a style closely associated with the reign of Jayavarman VII. Inside, the walls show relief carvings depicting scenes from Buddhist stories and everyday Khmer life.
A valid Angkor Archaeological Park pass is required to enter the site, which can be bought at the main park entrance. The complex is smaller than many others in the park, so a visit of around half an hour is usually enough to see it well.
At the eastern side of the temple, a large fig tree has pushed its roots through the upper gateway, fusing stone and wood so tightly they can barely be separated. This gateway has become one of the most photographed spots in the entire park.
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