The Angkorian era

The Angkorian era is a time of prosperity for Cambodia, which will last several centuries (9th -15th centuries). The kings have full religious, political, economic, cultural and artistic powers. Several monarchs will greatly influence this era by their personality traits.

Jayavarman II (c.770-c.850)

King Jayavarman II initiated the pacification and the unification of the two kingdoms of Tchen-la, and freed them from the rule of Java.

Founder of the Angkorian monarchy, upon his return from Java, King Jayavarman II settled in Indrapura, most probably present-day Banteay Prei Nokor, in Tbaung Khmum district, Kampong Cham province.

Later, he established himself in Hariharálaya (Roluos) in Sotrnikum district, Siem Reap province, before settling in Mahendraparvata (Mahá + Indra + Parvata), the Kulen Mountain, where he instituted Devarája cult.

The king built numerous temples on Phom Kulen to house stone and precious metal Siva linga.

This tradition continued throughout the reigns of several kings during the Angkorian era.

Jayavarman II died in Hariharálaya in 850 and was posthumously named Preah Paramesvara. The artistic output of the era is referred to as the Kulen style.