Manasara Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Manasara-Shilpashastra; III. Manasara on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Manasara: Translation; V. Architecture of Manasara: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v6.c41.s17.t1: Beng Méaleā
Mānasāra Series (I. A Dictionary of Hindu Architecture; II. Indian Architecture according to Mānasāra-Śilpaśāstra; III. Mānasāra on Architecture and Sculpture: Sanskrit Text; IV. Architecture of Mānasāra: Translation; V. Architecture of Mānasāra: Illustrations; VI. Hindu Architecture in India and Abroad; VII. An Encyclopaedia of Hindu Architecture) v6.c41.s17.t1
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Beng Méaleā
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The temple of Beng Méaleā, probably of the ninth century, is situated about twenty miles east of Angkor Thom. It belongs to the first group of Cambodian temples, all the enclosures being more or less on the same level. Its exceptional features lie in the fact that, in the first enclosure on the south or left side, are two groups of buildings ‘which are assumed to have been the palaces of the king and the queen respectively.’ The palaces are identified by the smaller corridors and great halls, with side aisles, as throne or state reception rooms. ‘The walls of the corridors are as those of Angkor Vāt and Bayon, the decoration being confined to the entrance portals and the towers.’² All the outer courts are filled with water, forming huge tanks.
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² *Ibid.*, II, p. 396.
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This is also in a ruined condition. Its general view is thus not available. The plan has been, however, reconstructed.³ The chief deity of the temple is missing. But it is clear from the general history of the dynasty that it was originally a Hindu temple.
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³ Vide Fergusson, Plate no. 470; and M. L. Delaporte, *Le Cambodge*, Tome I, *Le Royaume Actuel*, par Etienne Aymonier.