Hariharalaya

Hariharalaya was a significant royal and religious center in the Khmer Empire, located in what is now Cambodia. It served as the capital city under King Jayavarman III and was named after the combined deity Harihara, representing Vishnu and Shiva. This choice of deity signifies the religious syncretism prevalent during the era, blending Hindu traditions.

The site of Hariharalaya is near the modern town of Roluos, north of Angkor. It was established as a capital city in the late 9th century CE. Key structures within Hariharalaya include the temples of Preah Ko, Bakong, and Lolei. Bakong, in particular, was the state temple of King Udayadityavarman I and features a stepped pyramid design, a common architectural motif in Khmer temples. Preah Ko is notable for its six brick towers arranged in two rows.

Hariharalaya played a crucial role in the political and religious landscape of the Khmer Empire during its early stages. It predates the more famous city of Angkor Thom and was a precursor to the architectural developments that would follow. The city's temples, though now in ruins, offer valuable insights into Khmer art, architecture, and religious practices of the period. The religious and administrative functions of Hariharalaya were eventually shifted to other locations as the empire expanded and evolved.