Discovery of Angkor Wat

Definition

The discovery of Angkor Wat refers to the re-identification and exploration of the vast temple complex in Cambodia, originally built in the early 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu. This monumental structure is considered a masterpiece of Khmer architecture and has become a symbol of Cambodia's cultural heritage, attracting attention from European explorers and archaeologists during the 19th century.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Angkor Wat was rediscovered by Western explorers in the mid-19th century, notably by French naturalist Henri Mouhot, who documented its existence and brought it to global attention.
2. Originally constructed as a Hindu temple, Angkor Wat later transformed into a Buddhist site, reflecting the region's religious evolution.
3. The temple complex covers an area of over 162 hectares, making it one of the largest religious monuments in the world.
4. Angkor Wat is renowned for its stunning bas-reliefs and intricate carvings that depict scenes from Hindu mythology and historical events.
5. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, Angkor Wat has played a crucial role in Cambodia's national identity and tourism industry.

Review Questions

• How did the re-discovery of Angkor Wat impact Western perceptions of Southeast Asian history and culture?
  • The re-discovery of Angkor Wat significantly shaped Western perceptions of Southeast Asian history and culture by highlighting the region's rich architectural heritage and advanced civilization. European explorers like Henri Mouhot not only showcased Angkor Wat's grandeur but also spurred interest in the Khmer Empire, prompting further archaeological investigations. This newfound fascination led to a greater appreciation for Southeast Asian history among Western scholars and travelers, although it also often came with colonial biases that affected local narratives.
• Discuss the role of Henri Mouhot in bringing attention to Angkor Wat and how his writings influenced future archaeological efforts.
  • Henri Mouhot played a pivotal role in bringing global attention to Angkor Wat through his explorations and detailed accounts published in the 1860s. His writings described the temple's majestic architecture and intricate designs, capturing the imagination of European audiences. Mouhot's work laid the groundwork for subsequent archaeological expeditions by sparking curiosity about Angkor Wat, leading many scholars to study its significance within the broader context of Khmer history and architecture, while also raising questions about preservation efforts amid colonial influences.
• Evaluate how the transformation of Angkor Wat from a Hindu temple to a Buddhist site reflects broader cultural shifts in Southeast Asia over time.
  • The transformation of Angkor Wat from a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu to a prominent Buddhist site illustrates significant cultural shifts in Southeast Asia influenced by changing religious practices and sociopolitical dynamics. This transition reflects the decline of Hinduism as Buddhism gained prominence across the region, marking a pivotal point in Southeast Asia's spiritual landscape. The ongoing significance of Angkor Wat as a Buddhist site today showcases how cultural heritage can evolve while retaining deep historical roots, highlighting both continuity and change within Khmer identity and broader Southeast Asian culture.

Related terms

Khmer Empire: A powerful Southeast Asian civilization that flourished from the 9th to the 15th centuries, known for its monumental architecture and advanced irrigation systems.

Colonial Archaeology: The study of archaeological sites and artifacts during colonial times, often driven by European interests and perspectives, sometimes leading to the misrepresentation or exploitation of local cultures.

Buddhism: A major world religion that originated in India, it became prominent in Southeast Asia and influenced the spiritual practices and architectural styles at Angkor Wat over time.