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Indravarman IKing of the Khmer Empire
Date of Birth: .
Country:  Operator |
Content:
- King of the Khmer Empire
- Urban Development and Water Management
- Religious Innovations
- Expansion and Legacy
King of the Khmer Empire
Indravarman I was a exemplary king who epitomized the ideals of monarchical rule. During his reign, he transformed Hariharalaya, the capital of the Khmer Empire.
Urban Development and Water Management
Indravarman I constructed the Indra tataka baray, a massive reservoir that supplied water to Hariharalaya and surrounding rice fields. It surrounded the island temple of Lolei, where water from the Rolous River was gathered.
Religious Innovations
In 879, Indravarman I built the Preahko temple in Hariharalaya to honor his ancestors. He subsequently introduced the cult of devaraja, deifying the monarch. In 881, he consecrated Phnom Bakong on Mount Bakong as the site of the royal linga, a symbol of devaraja and Indravarman himself.
Expansion and Legacy
By the time of his death in 889, Indravarman I had expanded the Khmer Empire's borders to Ubon in northern Thailand and Pnom Bayang in southern Cambodia. He was given the posthumous name Isvaraloka, reflecting his esteemed status.
