South Khleang (South Storehouse), Siem Reap

South Storehouse is one of the two enigmatic structures known as the Khleangs, situated on the eastern side of the Royal Square in the ancient city of Angkor Thom. These buildings, whose purpose remains unknown, stand just behind the twelve towers of Prasat Suor Prat and are separated by the royal route that leads from the Angkor Thom Royal Palace to the Victory Gate.

The orientation of South Storehouse, along the north-south axis, reflects its deliberate alignment with the layout of the surrounding architectural marvels in Angkor Thom. Notably, the two Khleang buildings were not constructed simultaneously. The northern building, known as North Storehouse, was built during the reign of King Jayaviravarman, while the southern building, South Khleang, was constructed under the reign of his successor, King Suryavarman. Despite being built by different rulers, both structures share similar design characteristics, with South Storehouse being slightly narrower than its northern counterpart.

The Storehouses are notable for lending their name to the architectural style known as the Khleang style. This style is characterized by relatively simple lintels adorned with a central kala, which is a motif depicting a fierce mythical creature often associated with time and cosmic cycles. Other buildings in Angkor Thom that showcase the Khleang style include Phimeanakas and Ta Keo, further attesting to the prevalence and influence of this architectural design during the Khmer Empire's reign.

Although the original purpose of South Storehouse remains a mystery, its presence in the grand complex of Angkor Thom adds to the fascination and intrigue surrounding the site. Visitors can marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the Khmer civilization and ponder the historical significance of this enigmatic structure.