Angkor Wat is a breathtaking Cambodian monument renowned for its grandeur and historical significance. Built in the early 12th century by King Suryavarman II, it originally served as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, but later transformed into a Buddhist temple complex.

Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, spanning over 162 hectares of land. Its architectural marvel includes intricate bas-reliefs and stunning towers that symbolize Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu mythology. The temple is surrounded by a vast moat, adding to its mystique and grandeur.

The layout of Angkor Wat is designed to represent the cosmic world order, with its central towers representing the peaks of Mount Meru and the surrounding walls and moat symbolizing the oceans and mountains at the edge of the world.

Over the centuries, Angkor Wat has played a central role in Cambodian culture and religion. It has survived various wars, invasions, and the test of time, remaining a symbol of resilience and spiritual devotion. In 1992, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its outstanding universal value and ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Today, Angkor Wat is not only a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists but also a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. Its stunning architecture, historical significance, and spiritual aura continue to captivate and inspire people globally, making it a true treasure of human civilization.

OUTLINE:

00:00 The Dawn of Angkor Wat
02:30 The Grand Design
04:33 The Fall and Forgotten Years
05:57 Rediscovery and Restoration
08:11 Angkor Wat Today