Banteay Samre Temple

 

    is located 400 meters (1,312 miles) east of the East Baray. Built under Suryavarman II and Yasovarman II in the early 12th century, it is a Hindu temple in the Angkor Wat style. This temple uses the same materials as the Banteay Srei.

The temple is worth the extra effort to experience the elaborate architecture, and fine carvings, although theft has mutilated many of the temple's  treasures.

     The name "Samre" comes from an ethnic group of people who live at the mountain and inhabited the regions at the base of Kulen mountain. There is no inscription on this temple, but the temple's style of the architecture is of the classic art of the middle period similar to Angkor Wat. The monument most likely dates from the same period or perhaps, slightly later, although there are additions attributed to the Bayon style.

       The proportions of Banteay Samre are plended. A unique feature is an interior moat with laterite paving, which when filled with water must have given an ethereal atmosphere to the temple. All of the buildings around the moat are on a raised base with horizontal mouldings, decoreated in some areas with figures framed by lotus buds.

 

Reference: Banteay Samre Temple