Abstract
In this paper, we attempted to classify the architectural style of brick shrines at the Sambor Prei Kuk monuments that is located in the central area of Cambodia and is recognized as the largest architectural complex in the Pre-Angkor period. A total of 28 brick shrines which are relatively well conserved in this group of monuments were selected and analyzed from several points of view; form of plan, interior form and layout of the pedestal in main chamber, form and roofing structure of antechamber, form of elevation, and form of corbel arch roofing of main chamber. As a result of above analysis, it was clarified that the variety of the architectural forms are mixed and irregularly arranged in this group of monuments. Diversified style of brick shrines in the Pre-Angkor disappeared after the commencement of Angkor period in the 9th century. Architectural style of brick shrines was standardized in the Angkor period; thereafter the main construction material for the major structures in temple complex shifted from brick to sandstone in the beginning of the 11th century. The peak of brick architectures was reached in the Pre-Angkor period, and it was the most outstanding expression through design, structure, and construction technique in the shrines at the Sambor Prei Kuk.
