Prang Sam Yot Lopburi

Prang Sam Yot, located in the heart of Lopburi town, represents a unique 13th-century Khmer temple complex distinguished by its three brick prangs (towers) arranged in a row, originally dedicated to Vishnu before being converted to Theravada Buddhist use. The temple complex, constructed during the late Angkor period in the 13th century CE, features three interconnected brick towers rising to heights between 15 and 20 meters, with the central tower being the tallest. The complex spans approximately 1 hectare and features a rectangular laterite enclosure wall, though much of the original enclosure has been lost to urban development. The three prangs, constructed primarily from brick with sandstone doorframes and decorative elements, are connected by galleries, creating a unique architectural arrangement distinct from the typical quincunx pattern of Khmer temples. The temple’s lintels and pediments, carved from sandstone, originally depicted scenes from Hindu mythology, particularly Vishnu-related themes, though many have been damaged or removed over centuries. The complex includes evidence of stucco decoration, libraries, and subsidiary structures. Archaeological evidence indicates the temple originally served as a Vishnu temple before being converted to Buddhist use in later periods, reflecting the syncretic nature of religious practice in the region. The site has undergone restoration since the 1930s, involving structural stabilization and conservation of remaining decorative elements. Today, Prang Sam Yot remains an iconic landmark of Lopburi, famous for its resident monkey population and unique three-tower design, attracting visitors interested in its architectural significance and the interaction between Khmer and Thai cultural traditions. ([1][2])