Prasat Suor Prat (Towers of the Rope Dancers), Siem Reap

The Towers of the Rope Dancers is a captivating series of twelve towers located on the eastern side of a royal square in the ancient city of Angkor Thom. Constructed with a combination of rugged laterite and sandstone, these enigmatic towers stand as intriguing enigmas from Cambodia's rich historical past.

Arranged symmetrically, the towers stretch from north to south, flanking the starting point of the road leading east to the Victory Gate. They stand proudly in front of the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King, adding to the grandeur of the surrounding area. Despite their prominence, the actual purpose of these towers remains a mystery, leaving historians and archaeologists intrigued.

Locally known as "The towers of the tightrope dancers," the name originates from a romantic notion that they were used to support high wires for acrobatic performances during royal festivals. However, this belief holds little relevance to their actual function. According to the records of Zhou Daguan, a Chinese diplomat who visited Angkor in the 13th century, the towers were used to settle disputes among the Angkorian people, suggesting a unique and practical application in the past.

The temple's construction is attributed to the reign of King Indravarman II, adding to the historical significance of these enigmatic towers. Among the twelve towers, N1 tower and N2 antechamber were facing the danger of collapse, prompting restoration efforts undertaken by the Japanese Government Team for the Safeguarding of Angkor from 2001 to 2005. The restoration work ensured the preservation of these ancient structures, allowing visitors to marvel at their architectural splendor today.