The ancient temple complex of Banteay Prei Nokor is to the northwest of Kompong Cham, Cambodia. The complex is especially known by the temple of Wat Nokor in Khum of Kompong Siem, 1200 meters from the town of Kompong Cham. The local people sometimes call it 'Wat Angkor' though a sign at the entrance now officially designates the name of the temple as Wat Nokor Bachey.
History
The monument was built out of sandstone and laterite, and dates from the last years of the reign of Jayavarman VII. It is composed of a central tower surrounded by four laterite wall enclosures. The central tower of the temple of Vat Nokor is decorated with motifs characteristic of Bayon with Buddhist scenes on the pediments. The temple complex is believed to have been the headquarters of Jayavarman VII for a time, from where he extended his influence over nearby principalities. It has a number of distinguishing characteristics other than the fact that it is the largest ancient temple complex in Kampong Cham Province. One of these characteristics alludes to the fact that it is built of black sandstone, which causes it to stand out from other temples of the period which are often built of brick or reddish sandstone. The temple has an inscription which is open to visitors to see in the central pavilion. Wat Nokor Bache boasts a 'Chartres' effect in which a more modern temple of a very different style has been built over and around the original Angkorian structure creating a blend of architectural styles. There are many legends surrounding the origin of the temple but the most popular one has Oedipal overtones. According to this legend, the temple was built by a king who accidentally killed his father and married his mother. As recounted in the Greek legend, this king was put out by his father after a seer told him that his son would kill him. The son, however, did not die and returned to his kingdom not knowing that his father was the king. After quarreling on the road, the son killed the king and married his queen who was his mother. Upon discovering his crime, the young man built Wat Nokor in penance for his crime.
Visiting
Wat Nokor does not get the attention or maintenance necessary to maintain the grounds and gardens. The temple has great potential as a tourist attraction. Its deserted ambiance is one of its greatest attractions and distinguishes it from the tourist atmosphere found in Siem Reap and other popular locations. Nevertheless, the litter strewn walkways around the temple are contrary to tourists' expectations.
