Jayavarman IV (921-941)

After the death of Yasovarman, his two sons Harshavarman I and Isanavarman II succeeded on another to the throne.

In 921, Jayavarman IV, the kings’ uncle on their mother’s side and Yasovarman I’s brother-in-law through his wife Javardevi, came to the throne. He moved the capital city from Yasodharapura to Chok Gargyar, which was called Koh Ker by the Khmer people, in Preah Vihear province, approximately 85km to the mortheast of the city of Angkor.

He built numerous temples in the new capital (photo 8), which were dedicated to the Brahmanic gods. He pursued the tradition for social development initiated by his predecessors by commissioning the digging of the Rahal artificial reservoir, to be used for both farming and religious purposes.

Several temples were built in the provinces under his reign, such as the Prasat Neang Khmao (photo 9).

He was named Preah Parama Sivapada after his death.

Archaeologists designate works of art from this era by the name of Koh Ker style.

Koh Ker temple pyremid

Neamg Khmao temple, view from the east

Phimean Akas temple, view from the south

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