Angkor Wat

Definition

Angkor Wat is a massive temple complex in Cambodia, originally built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. It later transformed into a Buddhist temple and has become one of the most significant symbols of Cambodia, representing both its artistic heritage and spiritual significance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world, covering an area of over 162 hectares.
2. The temple complex is renowned for its stunning architectural design, featuring intricate bas-reliefs and extensive carvings depicting Hindu mythology and historical events.
3. Angkor Wat was initially built as a Hindu temple but gradually became a Buddhist site around the end of the 13th century, reflecting the region's cultural transformation.
4. The layout of Angkor Wat is designed to represent an earthly model of the universe in stone, with its central tower symbolizing Mount Meru, the center of the universe in Hindu and Buddhist cosmology.
5. The temple complex has survived centuries of natural disasters and political turmoil, making it a vital cultural symbol for Cambodia's national identity.

Review Questions

• How does Angkor Wat reflect the cultural and religious transitions in Cambodia from Hinduism to Buddhism?
  • Angkor Wat originally served as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, showcasing intricate carvings and architecture reflective of Hindu beliefs. However, by the end of the 13th century, it transitioned into a Buddhist site, symbolizing the broader cultural shift within Cambodia. This transformation highlights how Angkor Wat not only represents architectural brilliance but also reflects the evolution of spiritual practices and identity in Cambodian society.
• What architectural features of Angkor Wat exemplify Khmer ingenuity and its influence on Southeast Asian art?
  • Angkor Wat showcases remarkable Khmer architectural features, such as its grand scale, intricate stone carvings, and symmetrical layout. The use of sandstone blocks fitted together without mortar exemplifies advanced construction techniques of the Khmer builders. Additionally, the temple's design incorporates elements like moats and towers that mirror natural landscapes, demonstrating how Khmer architecture harmoniously integrates with its environment and influences art across Southeast Asia.
• Evaluate the significance of Angkor Wat in contemporary Cambodian society and its role as a national symbol.
  • Angkor Wat holds immense significance in contemporary Cambodian society as a national symbol representing resilience and cultural pride. It attracts millions of tourists each year, contributing to Cambodia's economy while fostering global awareness of its rich heritage. The temple complex also serves as a focal point for national identity, representing not just historical achievements but also the ongoing preservation efforts by Cambodians to maintain their cultural legacy amid challenges. This dual role enhances Angkor Wat's status as a vital emblem of Cambodia's past and future.

Related terms

Khmer Empire:

A powerful empire in Southeast Asia that flourished from the 9th to the 15th centuries, known for its advanced architecture, including the construction of Angkor Wat.

Buddhism:

A major world religion that originated in India and later became influential in Southeast Asia, particularly after Angkor Wat transitioned from a Hindu to a Buddhist temple.

Baray: Large water reservoirs constructed by the Khmer civilization for agricultural purposes and irrigation, which played a crucial role in supporting the vast temple complex of Angkor Wat.