Angkor Wat is the largest religious building in the world, located in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The temple complex was built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century, likely begun in 1116 CE and finished in around 1150 CE. The Angkor Wat Architecture marks a transformation from the Siva tradition of the previous kings to the Vishnu tradition. The temple has become the symbol of Cambodia. Especially it was featured on the country’s flag and serves as a major tourist destination that draws people from around the world to discover its amazing complex every year.
About The Angkor Wat Architecture
Angkor Wat architecture’s design aims to symbolize Mount Sumeru, which holds significant importance as the dwelling place of the devas in Brahmanical mythology. The temple complex was uniquely constructed facing west, which sets it apart from other temples in the region that typically face east. The construction of the building covers an extensive area of approximately 200 hectares, Stretching over 1500 meters in length and 1300 meters in width. The highest central lotus (Prang) reaches 65 meters high. Angkor Wat’s western entrance spans 250 meters in length and 9 meters in width. It is constructed using sandstone and features dragon handrails on both sides. Not just a remarkable architectural marvel, The Temple is surrounded by a moat that stretches over 16 kilometers in length and exceeds 200 meters in width.
The construction of Angkor Wat involved the use of various types of stone for different purposes within the temple complex. These stones included sandstone, brick, and laterite. Each type of stone served specific functions in the construction of different elements within the temple. However, The primary material used for the temple’s construction is sandstone. The massive sandstone blocks, some weighing up to 1.5 tons, likely came from quarries located at the base of Phnom Kulen, a mountain range about 40 kilometers northeast of Angkor Wat. The method used to transport stone is still being debated by archaeologists, Scholars believe the Khmers might have used a combination of methods – floating the stones down canals on rafts, then winching or rowing them up smaller waterways closer to the temple site. Elephants might have also played a role in moving the heavier stones on land.
The five towering central towers represent the peaks of Mount Meru. The surrounding moat and outer walls, on the other hand, reflect the reverence for earthly mountains and oceans. Some people believe that Angkor Wat is a masterpiece of heavenly creation rather than the product of human handiwork due to its enormous size and magnificent architecture.
As we explore this historic marvel, it reminds us of the enduring power of human creativity and the capacity of architecture to amaze people of every generation. Discovering Angkor Wat is not just a historical tour, but it is an immersive experience of the breathtaking beauty and profound cultural importance of this architectural masterpiece.
Sources:
[1] Ministry Culture and Fine Art http://www.mcfa.gov.kh/site/detail/35
[2] Kingdom of Cambodiahttps://demo.cambodia.gov.kh/
