Why
Angkor Wat is special
Angkor Wat in Cambodia is an architectural masterpiece. It was
constructed in the jungle in the early 12th century, then - two
centuries later - was mysteriously abandoned by the Khmer
civilization.
The jungle soon overwhelmed Angkor Wat, hiding it for several
centuries with thick tropical foliage. There was little left to
see except an occasional protruding building stone.
In 1861 a French naturalist accidentally came across the jungle
veiled ruins. Eventually archaeologists reclaimed Angkor Wat,
exposing its magnificence.
Today's visitors are amazed at the building's ornate
architectural details and exquisite stone carvings. Particularly
arresting are the seductive dancing female ("apsaras")
sculptures ringing Angkor Wat.
Just part of a huge complex
Angkor Wat is merely one of many structures in a vast
human-built complex as geographically large as Paris. It is
collectively called Angkor. The top subcomplexes besides Angkor
Wat ("wat" means temple) are:
Ta Prohm - Photographers love this Angkor subcomplex. It clearly
shows the on-going destructive forces of untamed jungle growth.
The roots of banyan trees appear like giant octopus legs as they
slowly entangle large buildings.
Banteay Srei - It's the tiny jewel of the Angkor environs. The
Banteay Srei sculptures are outstanding.
Angkor Thom - Although Angkor Thom covers considerably more area
and might have been grander than its neighbor Angkor Wat, its
components are not as accessible and well preserved. It is more
of interest to archaeologists than tourists.
Recent Angkor deterioration
Sadly, much of what was rescued and restored over the past
century fell victim to recent civil warfare. Structures and
carvings deteriorated when - through human neglect - the jungle
repossessed the previously saved Angkor structures.
On the positive side, Cambodia is now making a conscientious
effort to once again reclaim key Angkor sites from the
destructive jungle.
What leading travel books say about Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is considered by many to be the most inspired
monument ever conceived.
Southeast Asia
on a Shoestring
Lonely Planet
The plan of Angkor Wat is simple and audacious.
Southeast Asia
Fodor's
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