Angkor Wat

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Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and is one of the largest religious monuments in the world, on a site measuring 162.6 hectares. Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century. It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura (present-day Angkor), the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum. Breaking from the Shaiva tradition of previous kings, Angkor Wat was instead dedicated to Vishnu. It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime attraction for visitors.

Architecture

Angkor Wat combines two basic plans of Khmer temple architecture: the temple-mountain and the later galleried temple. It is designed to represent Mount Meru, home of the devas in Hindu mythology. Within a moat and an outer wall 3.6 kilometers (2.2 mi) long are three rectangular galleries, each raised above the next. At the center of the temple stands a quincunx of towers. Unlike most Angkorian temples, Angkor Wat is oriented to the west; scholars are divided as to the significance of this. The temple is admired for the grandeur and harmony of the architecture, its extensive bas-reliefs, and for the numerous devatas adorning its walls.

History

The initial design and construction of Angkor Wat took place in the first half of the 12th century, during the reign of Suryavarman II. Initially dedicated to Vishnu, the temple was constructed to serve as the king's state temple and capital city. After the king's death, it became a monument to his reign. The temple has suffered significant deterioration, but extensive conservation efforts have been undertaken since the 20th century.

Cultural Significance

Angkor Wat is a powerful symbol of Cambodia, embodying the heart and soul of the Khmer civilization. It has been a source of inspiration and national pride for Cambodians and has drawn attention from archaeologists and historians worldwide. The temple is also a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. Its image appears on the Cambodian national flag, making it the only flag in the world to feature a building.

Conservation and Tourism

The conservation of Angkor Wat has been a major concern due to looting, deterioration due to natural forces, and damage from war. International efforts, led by organizations such as UNESCO, have contributed to the preservation and restoration of the site. Tourism, while providing significant revenue to the country, also presents challenges in terms of managing visitor impact on the site.

In Popular Culture

Angkor Wat has appeared in various forms of popular culture, including films, literature, and video games, often symbolizing adventure, mystery, and the exotic. Its iconic status and distinctive architecture have made it a recognizable symbol of Southeast Asia.

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