Prasat Hin Mueang Tam: An Architectural Marvel of Buri Ram

Introduction

Prasat Hin Mueang Tam, located in Tambon Chorakhe Mak, is one of the most architecturally significant Khmer sanctuaries in Buri Ram. Its historical significance and architectural intricacies make it a site of immense interest to historians, archaeologists, and tourists alike. Despite the lack of precise evidence regarding its construction date or creator, the sanctuary is generally believed to have been established between the 10th and 12th centuries, serving as a Hindu religious shrine.

Architectural Style and Historical Context

The Baphuon and Kleang Styles

The architectural design of Prasat Hin Mueang Tam is a remarkable blend of the Baphuon and Kleang styles of Khmer art. The Baphuon style, which dates from 1007 to 1082, is characterized by elaborate bas-reliefs and intricate carvings, while the Kleang style, dating from 965 to 1012, is known for its more subdued and simplistic designs. This fusion of styles is evident in the sanctuary’s unique aesthetic, which reflects the complexity and depth of Khmer art during its peak.

Historical Significance

The bas-reliefs found at the site predominantly depict Hindu deities, suggesting that the sanctuary was utilized for Hindu religious practices. It is believed that the temple was dedicated to the worship of Hindu gods, notably Shiva and Vishnu, as indicated by the imagery and iconography present in the carvings.

Structural Composition

The Prangs

The sanctuary comprises five brick prangs, all constructed on a singular laterite base. These prangs are arranged in two rows, with three positioned at the front and two at the back. The central prang in the front row is the largest and most prominent, although only its base has survived intact. The remaining four prangs are in various states of disrepair. Each prang features a single entrance facing east, with false doors on the other three sides. The principal tower also boasts a front portico, adding to its grandeur.

Decorations and Carvings

Excavations at Prasat Hin Mueang Tam have unearthed numerous decorative elements, including a lintel carved with a deity holding a water lily, sitting atop Kala’s face, and surrounded by figures believed to portray the wedding of Shiva and Parvati. Additionally, a pediment portrays God Indra riding his elephant, Airavata. The lintel on the prang itself is carved with a god kneeling above Kala’s face. Fragments of stucco reliefs, once adorning the base, indicate that the main prang was originally embellished with exquisite stucco work.

The Lintels of Smaller Prangs

The smaller prangs also feature significant carvings. Two lintels remain intact, one at the northern tower in the front row and the other at the southern tower of the back row. These lintels depict Shiva holding Uma (Parvati) on his lap, seated on his bull Nandin, and Varuna riding a swan, respectively. The tops of these prangs, crafted from sandstone and carved into lotus shapes, were found scattered around their bases.

The Complex Layout

Viharas and Surrounding Structures

In front of the prang complex, two viharas, or wihans, built from brick, face the two side prangs in the front row. The entire sanctuary complex is encircled by two walls. The inner wall is a narrow, sandstone gallery, while the outer wall is constructed from laterite. Entrance pavilions, or Gopuras, are situated in all four cardinal directions at both walls. Except for the inner western Gopura, all are made from sandstone and are intricately carved with various designs, including pediments, lintels, and pilasters. These carvings narrate Hindu myths and feature floral and foliage motifs.

Moats and Barays

Between the inner and outer walls lies a substantial laterite platform. At the four corners of the complex are L-shaped moats, or barays, lined with laterite steps leading to the bottom. The edges of these moats are adorned with sandstone carvings of Naga bodies, their necks stretching at the baray corners. These five-headed Nagas are bald, devoid of any ornaments, adding a unique characteristic to the site.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Admission

Prasat Hin Mueang Tam is open daily to visitors from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The admission fee is 100 Baht. Visitors can also purchase a combined ticket for both the Phanom Rung Sanctuary and the Mueang Tam Sanctuary at a discounted rate of 150 Baht. For more information, interested parties can contact the Phanom Rung Historical Park Office via telephone or fax.

Directions to Prasat Hin Mueang Tam

Reaching Prasat Hin Mueang Tam from Buri Ram town is possible via two routes:

1. Route via Highway No. 218 and No. 24: From Buri Ram town, take Highway No. 218 (Buri Ram-Nang Rong) and turn left onto Highway No. 24 towards Surin. Continue to the Tako T-junction, then turn right onto Highway No. 2177, passing Phanom Rung School on the right. At the intersection, turn right onto Rural Road Bo Ro 4013, proceed to Ban Yai Yaem Watthana, and turn left at the junction onto Rural Road Bo Ro 5053. Continue straight to find the Mueang Tam Sanctuary on the left. The total distance is approximately 83 kilometers.
2. Route via Highway No. 2445: Take Highway No. 2445 to Prakhon Chai town. At the junction, turn right onto Rural Road Bo Ro 3054. Continue to see the Mueang Tam Sanctuary on the right. The total distance is around 63 kilometers.
   

   Conclusion
   

   Prasat Hin Mueang Tam stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and religious significance of the Khmer Empire. Its intricate carvings, unique structural layout, and historical relevance make it a site of great interest, offering insights into the region’s cultural and artistic heritage. Whether for academic study or leisurely exploration, Prasat Hin Mueang Tam provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, inviting visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of history that it embodies.

Address And Location:

Chorakhe Mak Prakhon Chai Buri Ram 31140