 Twelve
nearly identical laterite/sandstone towers that stand opposite and
parallel to the Terrace of the Elephants. The artistic and architectural
style of the towers is unique, defying easy classification and dating.
Construction may have begun under Jayavarman VII, but the towers do not
display the classic Bayon-style characteristics. It has been argued that
they may be post-Bayon or perhaps much earlier, as early the 11th
century. The original function of the towers is a matter of debate but
in the 13th century classic, "Customs of Cambodia," Chinese emissary to
Angkor, Zhou Daguan, gives a romantic but dubious first hand account of
their function. He wrote that the towers were used to settle legal
disputes and matters of criminal justice. The belligerent parties were
kept in the towers for a few days. The one to emerge in ill health was
declared the loser, guilty by divine decree. Best photographed in the
late afternoon. |
