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Angkor's District of
Angkor Wat
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Khmer for city temple, Angkor Wat is the central religious complex lying at the heart of Angkor, the seat of power for the Khmer empire from the 10th century till their fall in the 15th century.
Angkor Wat, possibly the most elaborate temple complex in the world with it's iconic 5 towers and stunning architecture, is the prime example of Khmer style. It was built by King Suryavarman II in the 12th century primarily of sandstone and dedicated to Vishnu, though later converted into a Buddhist temple. It's beauty and unique layout, directional axis, gated walls covered in peaked fortification at the corners not to mention the incredible amount of scultpures, freizes and bas reliefs decorating it's vast interior have attracted fascination from all over the world since it's creation. The temple itself is a mix of overall themes and intended purposes. The raised walls and higher center with it's high peaked towers are in the 'mountain temple' style, representing mount Meru, the home of the gods. Like Angkor Thom it is also surrounded by a moat, though it is likely this was intended for religious significance rather than fortification. Click on images for larger view. Image references below.
The interior galleries are covered in high detailed bas-reliefs depicting a variety of scenes from the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, and also several of general Hindu mythology. Also like Angkor Thom, it contains a complete scene of the Churning of the Sea of Milk, using the serpent Vasuki as the instrument. An interesting addition to the temple is the cruciform structure (you can see from the central image above), called the Hall of a Thousand Buddhas. The entire structure itself is believed to have been intended for use as King Suryavarman II's funerary site, though aside from a few [possible] burial goods and odd directional axis no other proof has been found (as yet).  Are you a sky gazer? There is a fascinating and unique theory about the cosmic importance or symbolism of the architecture of Angkor Wat by Eleanor Manikka that can be found here: Angkor Wat, Eleanor Manikka. The two primary sources used in this summary are: Photographs were primarily taken from the following:  Phirun asks "Are you done with your tour? " Proceed to the rest pavillion with the other tour guests ---> 
The Discussions of Angkor Wat:
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