Koch Ker death pyramid: how the "Mexican pyramid" appeared in Cambodia

This step pyramid is not in Mexico, as you might think at first glance, and not even in the jungle of Guatemala. This is the temple complex of Koh Ker in the north of the Kingdom of Cambodia, which was the center of the northern capital of the Khmer Empire. At the top of the pyramid there is an unusual well that goes deep into the structure, and the locals avoid approaching it, believing that it is connected with dark forces.

The ruins of the ancient city of Koh Ker are located in the province of Preahvihea, 90 kilometers northeast of Angkor, the ancient capital of the Khmers. And the story of this city, lost in the jungle of Hindustan, begins with a rivalry for power. Yes, dynastic strife flourished in the Khmer empire, and many relatives of the ruler did not want to put up with the role of relatives, they wanted sole power.

The pyramid in Koh Kere is called Prasat Thom, and this is one of the few buildings that have survived to this day in the northern capital. Prasat Thom consists of 7 steps, has a height of 32 meters and a base length of 55 meters. The shape of the pyramid is very similar to similar structures of the American Indians. At the top of the building is a mine that leads deep into the structure. Its purpose is not completely clear. Apparently, the pyramid itself was supposed to become the tomb of Jayavarman IV, therefore it was called the "pyramid of death." But no burial was found inside. Of the other notable objects, one can note the Garuda - the mythical bird of the god Vishnu, which is carved at the top of the pyramid.

According to another popular version, one of the local rulers worshiped the dark forces and sacrificed people to the god Mara. The mysterious well at the top of the pyramid was just used for these purposes, and it is for this reason that the local population is afraid to approach Prasat Thom. But it seems that this circumstance does not scare tourists at all, who are abundant here. This pyramid is especially attractive for lovers of mysticism and all kinds of extreme travels. Guards in the complex, of course, are present, but curious tourists periodically try to get into the closed well located at the top. It is assumed that this is the entrance to a room hidden inside the pyramid, but more detailed information on the contents of Prasat Thom is not yet available.