HONSHU > SIEM REAP
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Whoah - you're smart!
Yup, Cambodia it is and Angkor Wat to which we must head. Let's learn some facts about our new host nation as we travel there... |
- Angkor Wat translates as the "City/Capital of Temples"
- It is the largest religious monument in the world, on a site measuring 162 hectares.
- Originally constructed as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu for the Khmer Empire, it was gradually transformed into a Buddhist temple towards the end of the 12th century.
- It was built by the Khmer King Suryavarman II as his state temple and eventual mausoleum.
- It has become a symbol of Cambodia, appearing on its national flag, and it is the country's prime visitor attraction.
- It is designed to represent Mount Meru, home of the devas in Hindu mythology: within a moat more than 3 miles long and a 2.2 mile outer wall.
- Unlike most temples in the country, Angkor Wat is oriented to the west.
