Phimeanakas

This temple, of Hindu origin, is thought to have been built in the tenth century, in the reign of Yasovarman I. You can see staggered sculptures of animals at the base (lions) and on the walls (elephants). As with many temples in the area, it has been renovated. There's a huge pond that was the king's pool, used to celebrate rituals. Today it is used by the public for swimming and fishing. The colloquial name, Phimeanakas, comes from a compound word that can be translated as Gods & Heaven Palace. Legend has it that this temple was inhabited by a naga (serpent) which transformed into a woman by night, and the king had to "spend the night" with her in order to avoid bad omens.