Preah Khan Kompong Svay bears the original name of “Bakan” which refers to a high tower or citadel. It is a large Khmer temple complex located in Sangkum Thmei commune, Preah Vihear province, approximately 105km to the east of Angkor. The temple is well known for three things ; firstly it was a Mahayana-Buddhism temple related the concept of pure land, secondly it served as one of the way stations (the temples d’etape) at least since 12th century on the east-bound ancient highway network (Royal Road) starting from Angkor Thom, passing through Beng Mealea to Preah Khan Kompong Svay, and thirdly, it is a industrial centre relating to the region’s iron mining, smelting and production activities.
It is clear that the main complex of the temple was built during the reign of three kings: Suryavarman I (1011-1050), Suryavarman II (1113-1150), and Javavarman VII (1181-1215). With regard to the general layout of temple, it is surrounded by four enclosure walls. The main sanctuay and outer enclosure are suggested to have been built by King Suryaravarman I; the second enclosure dated to the period of Suryavarman II. ; and the 3rd and the completion of the 4th enclosure, and baray are attributed to King Jayavarman VII.
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