Angkor Wat is a Vaishnava Hindu and Theravada Buddhist temple complex in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and the largest religious complex in the world, covering a site of 162.6 hectares within the ancient Khmer capital of Angkor. It was built between 1113 and 1150 CE under the reign of King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, and from the late thirteenth century it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple, remaining an active center of Buddhist worship ever since. Unlike most other Angkorian temples it is oriented toward the west, and it is renowned for its monumental scale, extensive bas reliefs and architectural unity, qualities that have made it a national symbol of Cambodia and the central image on the Cambodian flag.
Cross-Tradition Connections
Associated With
In Style
The largest religious monument in the world, the defining masterwork of Khmer architecture.
Uses Element
Built almost entirely of sandstone blocks quarried from the Kulen hills and floated to the site by canal.
Reader Challenges (0 open reader challenges)
No disputes yet. Spotted an error or a better source? Open the first one.
Sign in to dispute this or suggest a correction.