Angkor Wat, a temple complex located in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is renowned for its remarkable architecture and cultural significance. One of the distinctive features that sets Angkor Wat apart from other temples in the region is its west-facing orientation. While most temples in Southeast Asia and Cambodia are traditionally constructed to face east, Angkor Wat defies this norm by positioning its main entrance towards the west.
This distinct west-facing orientation of Angkor Wat has captivated the curiosity of historians, archaeologists, and visitors alike. The temple’s alignment with the setting sun has given rise to various theories and interpretations over the years. Below are some theories that answer the question “why Angkor Wat faces west?“
Association with Hindu Deity Vishnu Theory
Angkor Wat was dedicated to the Hindu deity Vishnu, who is considered the supreme deity in Hinduism. According to Hindu beliefs, Vishnu sits in front of whom all other gods sit. Since other Hindu deities are believed to sit facing east, Vishnu faces west. Therefore, structures dedicated to Vishnu, like Angkor Wat, are designed to face west.
Association with Death and Funerary Theory
Another explanation is that Angkor Wat may have been built as a tomb for the king (King Suryavarman II who built this temple). The west-facing orientation is associated with the direction of the sunset, which is often associated with death. This symbolism may have influenced the decision to orient Angkor Wat towards the west.
Association with the Equinox Theory
The “Angkor Wat Equinox” phenomenon might offer a scientific clue to why Angkor Wat faces west. During the equinoxes, the setting sun casts a beautiful reflection on the central tower, creating a stunning visual spectacle when viewed from the temple’s western entrance. This has led some to believe that the architects and builders, with their likely advanced knowledge of astronomy, intentionally designed the temple to face west to align with the sun’s position during the equinoxes.
The reason why Angkor Wat faces west is complex and not definitively explained. While some theories suggest a connection to Hinduism, proposing that the temple might be dedicated to Vishnu or have a funerary role (both associated with the West), there is still a lack of consensus among experts. The intriguing “Angkor Wat Equinox” theory presents an astronomical explanation, but its validity is still a subject of debate. The true purpose behind this distinctive orientation remains a captivating mystery that archaeologists and historians are actively working to unravel.
Sources:
[1] “Why is Angkor Wat built facing west?“, Koh Santepheap Daily
[2] “On March 21, The Sun Will Rise On The Central Peak Of Angkor Wat“, Ministry of Information, Cambodia
[3] Wikipedia
Photos by:
អ៊ាង សុផល្លែត Sophalleth , អាជ្ញាធរជាតិអប្សរា Apsara National Authority & Amazing Cambodia
