The origin of Wat Preah Prohm Rath dates back to the 16th century. The monastery was built in honor of Preah Ang Chang-han Hoy. This monk lived from 1358 until 1456. According to legend, when his boat was cut in half by a Siamese crocodile on Tonlé Sap Lake, he safely came to shore here. An ornate replica of his watercraft is displayed outside of the pagoda. Inside the Ordination Hall called Preah Vihear is a reclining Buddha crafted from the original wooden boat.
