Angkor Wat: The Pinnacle of Khmer Architecture

Angkor Wat, meaning "City of Temples" in Khmer, is an awe-inspiring temple complex located near Siem Reap, Cambodia. Constructed in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it was first dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu, reflecting the empire's religious beliefs at the time. By the end of the 12th century, it transitioned into a Buddhist temple. Spanning over 400 acres, Angkor Wat is renowned as the largest religious monument globally. Its design is a stunning representation of Khmer architecture, featuring a temple-mountain layout symbolizing Mount Meru, the home of the gods in Hindu mythology. The complex is surrounded by a vast moat and enclosed by outer walls stretching 3.6 kilometers. Three rectangular galleries rise successively towards the center, where five iconic towers stand. Angkor Wat is more than just a temple; it's a historical record etched in stone. Intricate carvings and bas-reliefs depict scenes from Hindu epics, including the famous Churning of the Ocean of Milk. These artistic details provide insights into the beliefs, stories, and daily life of the Khmer people. Despite its age, Angkor Wat was never truly abandoned, although it did experience periods of disuse and disrepair. It was rediscovered by the French explorer Henri Mouhot in the 19th century, who declared it grander than anything left by Greece or Rome. Today, it remains an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a major tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors each year.