Prasat Ta Som located in the east of Nean Pean. The entry
and exit to Ta Som can only be access from east entrance. It was built in the
end of the 12th century, dedicated to the father of the king (Buddhist), replica
to Bayon style of art.
BACKGROUND
Ta Som has not been restored. It is a small quiet temple and
affords a delightful visit.
In the past one of the significant features of Ta Som was
the growth of fig trees the faces at the entrance towers. These have been cut
from the east tower but they are still visible at the west one.
LAYOUT
Ta Som is a single tower monument on one level surrounded by
three enclosing walls with entry on the east and west carved with four faces, the
face on the right of the east tower (facing the temple) has a beautiful smile. The
entry towers are in the shape of a cross with a small room on each side
connecting to a laterite wall.
Walk through the first entry tower over a causeway, which
crosses a moat and is bordered with serpents and large Garudas. The wall of the
second enclosure is in laterite with a sandstone entry tower in the shape of a
cross on the east and west sides. The entry towers have windows with balusters
on the exterior and proceeded by a porch with pillars.
The next enclosure comprises a laterite and sandstone
gallery with corner pavilions, which have molded false doors. Amongst the
crumbled heaps of stones in the courtyard are two libraries opening to the west.
CENTRAL SANCTUARY
The main tower is in the shape of a cross with four porches.
To see the Central Sanctuary, courtyard and libraries, climb through the
opening on the north side.
