Paper short abstract:

Having received the influence of Indian civilization since the first century AD, Khmer kings of Cambodia created architectural marvel of temples dedicated to Siva. In the early 10th century the city of Lingapura or Chok Gargyar (Koh Ker) was founded by the King Jayavarman IV, and he lived there for 20 years.

Paper long abstract:

In the tenth century, Khmer king Jayavarman IV relocated the capital at ChokGargyar, it have been known now as Koh Ker, at Angkor area. At that place, Jayavarman IV built and had stayed in his new capital for twenty years. He also built many religious monuments dedicated to Hinduism, as well as infrastructure for supporting the economy such as irrigation system, road. The concept of urban planning was also implemented during his reign. We also found the consolidation of king's power and politic to ensure the country's stability, security, and prosperity.

This city, however, lasted for only 20 years. It was abandoned immediately after his death. His successor, king Rajendravarman II, moved the capital back to Angkor with unknown reason. Because of the returning of the capital from Koh Ker to Angkor, many historians believe that the Jayavarman IV was a "usurper king".

What was really happening in tenth century concerning Jayavarman IV and his city, Koh Ker? What was the reason behind his relocation of the capital from Angkor to Koh Ker?

This presentation will explore the accurate answering to these questions, which related to: history, arts, archaeology, architecture, iconography of the style of Koh Ker under the reign of King Jayavarman IV.