(Siem Reap): Khleang Temple, located behind the Prasat Suor Prat and to the east of the Royal Palace of Angkor Thom, consists of two impressive sandstone structures standing on either side of the road leading to the Victory Gate of Angkor Thom. These two magnificent buildings are almost identical in appearance, although they were constructed during different reigns.

The North Khleang was built in the late 10th century by Jayavarman V, with construction believed to have begun during the reign of Rajendravarman II. The structure may originally have had a wooden roof, which was later dismantled and replaced with a solid sandstone construction.

The South Khleang was built in the early 11th century under Suryavarman I. Although similar in appearance to the North Khleang, it is slightly smaller in scale.

These two structures also gave rise to the famous “Khleang Style” of Angkorian art and architecture, which later influenced renowned temples such as Phimeanakas and Takeo Temple.

Beyond their architectural significance, the Khleang temples were not merely religious buildings but also served as important “administrative archives” of the Angkor period, as evidenced by inscriptions carved into their stone walls.

One important example is the stone-carved land map found at the North Khleang, engraved on the main window frame.

This ancient “land map” or land ownership plan, dating back more than 1,000 years, is rare and valuable evidence showing that the Khmer Empire possessed a clear and systematic method of land registration, management, and division between state and private ownership.

Another remarkable inscription is the Oath of Officials inscription (K.292), carved on the main doorway of the South Khleang. This inscription records the oath sworn by approximately 400 administrative officials and civil servants from various regions across the empire.

Its main message states that all officials must swear loyalty before King Suryavarman I, promising to protect the king, defend the territory, avoid betraying the throne, and carry out their administrative duties with fairness and integrity. Those who broke the oath were believed to suffer punishment in hell, while those who remained loyal and honest would receive merit and honour.

Evidence from both the land map and the oath inscriptions at the Khleang temples clearly demonstrates that the Khmer Empire during the Angkor period possessed a powerful and highly organised centralised administrative system. These records reflect national unity, strong legal authority, and strict civil service management, institutions that contributed greatly to the prosperity and strength of the Angkor Empire at its height.
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