Built in the late 12th century under the rule of King Jayavarman VII, the long terrace fronts the eastern side of the Royal Palace within the walled city of Angkor Thom. It served as a grand platform from which the king could view military parades, public ceremonies and state functions. The terrace, also known in some records as the Terrace of Honour, is richly decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures of life sized elephants.