angkor wat ( cambodia )

Built by Suryavarman ll in the 12 th century, dedicated to the indian god Vishnu

“The “ library”

The steps to the the central tower ( goupura) are high & narrow.Some people take it as a challenge and climb carefully , others watch them , like a show.Funny way to rest.

Statue of Vishnu to whom the temple is dedicated and still worshiped.

The galleries of the lower level displays on its walls the most Extraordinary bas-relief despicting stories from the wars of

Suryavarman ll.

The beatiful “windows “ are made of well carved “baterite” a stone easy to carve.

Though Angkor Wat was constructed as a Hindu temple, it has served as a Buddhist temple , since Buddhism became Cambodia´dominant religion.

Hundreds of carvings of dancers ( apsaras ) represent some of the finest examples of Angkorean era art.

Figures of lions & serpents ( naga) to guard the temple´entrance.

To visit the temple at sunset was quite an extraordinary experience.You shared it with local people that come also to admire the view at this especial moment of the day.

Photos: may 2006Music: Khmer

By Mariamocampos@gmail.com