Ak Yum, Archaeological site in Angkor, Cambodia.
Ak Yum is a temple in Angkor with three pyramidal levels and a central tower at its peak. The base measures roughly 100 meters on each side and sits on the south bank of the West Baray.
The temple started as a single-chamber brick sanctuary in the 8th century and was expanded in the early 9th century under King Jayavarman II. This growth reflects the place's increasing importance during his reign.
An inscription found at the southeast corner documents a donation to the deity Gambhiresvara, showing the Hindu practices that shaped this temple. This religious focus influenced how people used and revered this place.
The temple sits about 1.5 kilometers southwest of the West Baray and is relatively isolated in the landscape. Visitors should prepare for longer walks and bring plenty of water.
An underground cave system extends about 12 meters beneath the temple, setting it apart from other structures in the region. This subterranean layer makes it one of the most puzzling buildings in the Angkor complex.
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