Phanom Rung Historical Park
Northeastern Thailand Region
Phanom Rung Historical Park is an archaeological site in northeastern Thailand featuring the ruins of Prasat Phanom Rung, a Khmer Empire temple complex built between the 10th and 13th centuries. Situated on the rim of an extinct volcano at 402 meters elevation, the site was originally a Hindu religious sanctuary dedicated to Shiva and later became a Buddhist site. The complex includes a main sanctuary built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century and several other structures such as libraries and pavilions constructed during the reigns of subsequent Khmer kings. Visitors can admire the impressive stone-paved naga causeways, intricately carved lintels depicting Hindu mythology, and the principal tower that once housed a Shiva linga. The site was restored by Thailand's Department of Fine Arts over 17 years and officially opened in 1988. It remains a significant cultural and historical monument illustrating Khmer architectural and religious influence in the region.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Phanom Rung Historical Park is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy softer lighting for photography. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets in advance when possible, especially during the annual Phanom Rung Festival when traditional ceremonies are held. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to uneven stone paths and stairways. Modest dress is appropriate as the site is a religious monument. Guided tours can enrich the experience by explaining the symbolism of carvings and architecture.
Faits intéressants
- •Phanom Rung is built on the rim of an extinct volcano at 402 meters elevation.
- •The site features three naga (serpent) bridges symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth.
- •The main sanctuary once housed a Shiva linga, a divine symbol of the Hindu god Shiva.
- •The processional walkway is 160 meters long and lined with seventy sandstone posts topped with lotus buds.
- •The temple complex was restored over 17 years by Thailand's Department of Fine Arts and reopened in 1988.
Histoire
Phanom Rung was constructed in phases from the 10th to the 13th centuries during the Khmer Empire's expansion into what is now northeastern Thailand.
The earliest structures date to the 10th century, with the central sanctuary built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century.
Subsequent additions, including libraries and royal pavilions, were made under King Jayavarman VII in the 13th century.
The site served as an important vice-regal center along the road linking Angkor and Phimai.
After centuries of neglect, the Thai Department of Fine Arts restored the complex from 1971 to 1988, preserving its historical and architectural integrity.
Guide du lieu
Naga Causeways and Bridges12th century
Three stone-paved naga causeways with five-headed serpent sculptures lead visitors through the sacred complex, symbolizing the link between the earthly and divine realms.
Processional Walkway12th century
A 160-meter-long laterite-paved walkway bordered by seventy sandstone posts topped with lotus buds, used by royalty during rituals.
Main Sanctuary (Prasat Phanom Rung)12th century
The principal tower with double porches and intricate lintels depicting Hindu deities and stories. The inner sanctum originally housed the Shiva linga and features a somasutra drainage system.
White Elephant House (Phlab Phla)12th century
A pavilion believed to be where kings and royal family members changed attire before rituals.
Contact
Téléphone: 044 666 251