Temples
The major temples in the complex just north of Siem Reap are what most people come to see, and the jewel in the crown is Angkor Wat. Covering an area of two square kilometres, Angkor Wat is the worlds single largest religious monument. This, combined with its stunning architecture and surrounding moat, make it a truly awe inspiring site.
Built by Suryavarman II in the 12th century as a dedication to the Hindu god Vishnu, it is unique in that it faces west towards the setting sun, whereas all the other Khmer temples face East. This adds another dimension at sunrise and sunset, with the light reflecting beautifully off the five central towers. Angkor Wat was also the only temple not to be fully abandoned during the centuries of decline, always having a small number of devoted caretakers to attend to its grounds. This has resulted in its remarkable preservation. Other outstanding features consist of the intricate carvings that adorn the stone walls. These include more than 2000 engravings of the celestial dancing girls, known as Apsaras. Often shown dancing side by side in a row, these enchanting smiling nymphs give a certain lightness to an otherwise foreboding atmosphere.
Angkor Thom, which means 'Great City', is second only to Angkor Wat in its size and beauty. In actual fact the sum of its parts, including the 12 kilometre, 8 meter high wall that surrounds it, is greater than that of Angkor Wat. Founded by Jayavarman VII in the late 12th century, the city is now partially obscured by the encroaching forest. While this may make it less spectacular when viewed from a distance, it gives the area a great atmosphere of tranquillity. With the sounds of the birds in the trees and the occasional family of monkeys darting across your path, this temple easily stands on its own as tribute to those who envisioned and created it. Located in the heart of Angkor Thom, the Bayon epitomizes the 'lost civilisation' of Angkor. Also founded by Jayavarman VII, this symbolic temple-mountain rises on three levels, and features 54 towers bearing more than 200 huge, yet enigmatic stone faces. The temples also feature wall engravings depicting scenes, ranging from everyday Khmer life, to battles against the armies from the Cham civilisation.
While these three major temples are the most impressive, they are by no means all that is on display at Angkor. There are another 20 temples in the area that each have their own individual history and architecture. Ta Prohm, with its massive trees and root systems growing in and around its buildings (as featured in the film Tomb Raider), is a sight to behold. Another must see is the Buddhist temple Preah Khan. Featuring the shrine of the White Lady, a wife of Jayavarman VII, it is still venerated by locals who leave behind offerings of incense and flowers, which contrast beautifully with the black stained stone walls.
