Angkor Wat

Siem Reap - Cambodia

Why did we choose this particular building?

One of the most extraordinary architectural creations. Mysteries of this building.

Introduction
Built in the first half of 12th century. One of the largest religious monuments. Originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu (The Protector). Became as Buddhist temple in the late 13th century. After 16th century, Angkor Wat was neglected. Was popularized in the West in mid-19th century. In the 20th century, Angkor Wat required considerable restoration.

 King Suryavarman II
King of the Khmer Empire (1113AD 1150AD)

Location
About 6km (4 miles) north of Siem Reap

Purpose
Kings state temple Capital city Representation of Hindu cosmology Religious monument Funerary

Architectural Plan
Combination of temple mountain and the later galleried temple. Influences from Orissa and the Chola of Tamil Nadu, India. Represent Mount Meru:
Causeway (rainbow bridge) Moat (ocean) Wall (mountains range)

 Khmer architecture
According mathematical system Harmony with universal

Oriented to the west rather than east. Use of sandstone as building material. Central quincunx of towers
64 meters high 5 peaks of the mountain

Outer wall
8 panels of bas-relief depicting scenes of Hindu epics Ramayana & Mahabharata

The Epic Battle of Kurukshetra in the Mahabharata.

 Is a massive 3-tiered pyramid.

1st level: gallery of teaching/bas-reliefs. 2nd level: gallery of meditation. 3rd level: place for the king, royalty & high priests worship to god Vishnu.

Decoration
Devata

Churning of the Sea of Milk

Equivalent of guardian spirits or guardian angels This term means devas (gods)

showing 92 asuras and 88 devas using the serpent Vasuki to churn the sea under Vishnu's direction