Banteay Kdei

Banteay Kdei

Banteay Kdei which means the “Citadel of Cells” was built in late 12th century. Even now the true function of this temple is unknown. The archeologists know most of the functions of the temples from the Sanskrit inscriptions found at the temples, but in Banteay Kdei, they found no inscriptions.

Since the rediscovery of this temple it has been determined that it was contructed under King Jayavarman VII based on the art style, some parts of the temple plan layout are similar to Preah Khan, especially the dancing hall and the double storey building.

Under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s Banteay Kdei served as the hospital. This temple was restored by the American Foundation (the World Monuments Fund).