Victory Gate: A Grand Entrance to Angkor Thom

The Victory Gate is more than just an entrance; it's a symbol of Khmer strength and architectural prowess. Unlike the other four gates of Angkor Thom, which align with the cardinal points, the Victory Gate sits on a non-secular axis, connecting the Royal Palace and the Elephant Terrace. Approaching the gate, visitors are greeted by a moat and a stone causeway adorned with a naga railing, depicting the 'Churning of the Sea of Milk' from Hindu mythology. Statues of gods and demons line the bridge, engaged in a tug-of-war, representing the struggle between good and evil. The gate itself is crowned with four faces, each pointing in a cardinal direction, and three towering prasats. These faces, believed to represent King Jayavarman VII, exude a sense of serenity and power. While the Victory Gate sees many tourists, it is considered by some to be the most interesting of Angkor Thom's gates.