Wat Preah Ngok (Temple of the Lead Buddha), Siem Reap

The Temple of the Lead Buddha, located just north of the Bayon, is a captivating historical site with a rich and intriguing history. It is one of the many Buddhist terraces attributed to the post-Angkor period, where recycled masonry from earlier ancient sites was used in its construction.

The temple features a simple yet grand terrace formed by a platform made of laterite blocks, measuring approximately 90 meters by 24 meters and rising about half a meter in height. On top of this platform lies an inner platform that reduces in size to around 50 meters by 10 meters. At the western end of this terrace stands a monumental Buddha statue, serving as the central focus of the site. The Buddha is gracefully covered by a shelter that has been restored in more recent times.

The Temple of the Lead Buddha is adorned with double sema stones, some of the largest seen in the Angkor region, placed at each cardinal point and corner of the terrace. Notably, the northwest sema stone bears an inscription from the French era of discovery, dating back to 1881. This inscription provides valuable historical context and insight into the site's exploration and documentation during that period. Additionally, the sema stone at the center of the western end carries an inscription for which the specific record remains elusive at present.

At the western end of the temple site, visitors can explore the remnants of a stepped laterite structure, believed to have possibly been a chedi or stupa. Sadly, little remains visible atop this structure today. However, stone coffins, lion pedestals, and other remnants have been thoughtfully arranged in this area, offering a glimpse into the site's past significance.

Nearby, two small reassembled stupas and two small sema stones can be found, adding further layers of historical intrigue to the site. Amongst the surrounding trees, the remains of a side building constructed of laterite are still visible, with only a sandstone window frame and base foundation remaining standing.

Throughout the area surrounding the Temple of the Lead Buddha, a vast array of sandstone pieces can be found, some of which are believed to originate from Baphuon. Among these sandstone remnants are curious stumpy round columns, which add to the enigmatic atmosphere of the site.