Prang Ku (Nong Ku Castle)

Prang Ku, or Prasat Nong Ku, is a complex of Khmer-style religious ruins that once served as a hospice and medical facility originating from the 12th-13th century. Its layout resembles an “Arogayasala” (which means hospital)-and comprises a main Prang (spire), a library, wall and entrance pavilions, and a pond outside of the walls. The ruins are in good condition, especially the roof structure of the main Prang,which still has its three tiers with a lotus decoration at its pinnacle. Other parts of the ruin have been restored or renovated, and now stand shady and peaceful.South of the front-facing wall, many more archaeological discoveries can be enjoyed, such as a sandstone lintel depicting a figure sitting on an elephant’s or bull’s back in a niche. Two stone fragments, one with carvings of a hermit and the other with fertility carvings, were adapted to be the base of a stucco statue of a monk, Phra Sangkatchai. The site is located at Ban Yang Ku, Tambon Ma-ue. To get there, from Roi Et town take Highway No. 23 (Roi Et-Yasothon) for 10 kilometers until Thawat Buri district is reached. Turn left for 6 kilometers to Prang Ku. Or take Highway No. 2044 (Roi Et-Phon Thong) for 8 kilometers, then turn right for just about 1 kilometer to Prang Ku.